- 1998-07
- Alice: Interactive 3D Scripting for Novices
- Matthew J. Conway, May, 1998
- Advisor: Randy Pausch
- Online Formats: PostScript, PDF, tar file (3 PDF files)
Abstract:
This dissertation presents lessons learned from developing Alice, a 3D
graphics programming environment designed for undergraduates with no 3D
graphics or programming experience. Alice is a Windows 95/NT tool for
describing the time-based and interactive behavior of 3D objects, not a CAD
tool for creating object geometry. Our observations and conclusions come
from formal and informal observations of hundreds of users. Primary results
include the use of LOGO-style egocentric coordinate systems, the use of
arbitrary objects as lightweight coordinate systems, the launching of
implicit threads of execution, extensive function overloading for a small
set of commands, the careful choice of command names, and the ubiquitous use
of animation and undo.