INFORMATION CAN BE PRESENTED IN VARIOUS WAYS. A designer's goal is to develop an interface that will draw a learner in and clearly communicate an idea. This article will introduce three methods of interface style and the best use for each style. Interfaces can be 2 dimensional, 2 1/2 dimensional, or 3 dimensional.

                          Maps are a common type of 2D interface.

2D interfaces are flat designs. This type of design is not intended to offer exploration. 2D interfaces are useful for presenting static information.

The most common use for a 2D interface is printed material such as books, magazines, maps or advertisements.

2D designs focus on the information to be presented not on distracting "eye candy" that detracts from the main idea. The road map above illustrates an effective use of 2D design.

2 1/2 D interfaces are those with raised elements, shadows and beveled buttons. These designs are intended to invite users into the interface and encourage exploration.

These are sample 2 1/2 D buttons. This type of button is used to navigate in a web page.

2 1/2 D interfaces are used for web pages, kiosks and CD-ROM applications. This type of interface includes navigation and interactive pages.

An ineffective use of 2 1/2 D design would be a design that incorporates shadows, beveled buttons and raised elements but does not contain navigation features.

The design would encourage navigation but would not provide it.

A 3D interface is used to immerse a user in a situation. This type of interface makes it easier to understand information by using perception, sight, sound and touch to present information.

        The Shockwave plug in is required to view this 3D globe.

3D interfaces are an effective way to illustrate spatial relationships. These interfaces can also offer exploration and can portray active environments.

An important thing to remember when creating 3D interfaces is to consider the necessity of the 3D interface to present the information.

Davis, J. and Merritt, S. (1998) The web design wow! book: Showcasing the best of on-screen communication. Berkeley, California: Peachpit Press.

McLellan, H.(1996) Virtual Realities. In D.H. Jonassen (Ed.), Handbook of research for educational communications and technology (pp 457, 472-475). New York: Simon & Schuster Macmillan.

Teri L. Rust