Ryan Yen

Demonstrational Interfaces

B.A. Myers - 1992

Abstract

Demonstrational interfaces, interfaces that let the user perform actions on concrete example objects while constructing an abstract program, thus letting the user create parameterized procedures and objects without learning a programming language, are discussed.

Reflection

Myers' work on demonstrational interfaces laid the groundwork for modern programming-by-example systems. The idea that users can create abstract procedures through concrete demonstrations continues to influence my thinking about making programming more accessible.