Cognitive Science

Final / 2005

Modified: 2003-05-04

Instructions: Return completed test no later than 3:00 p.m., Thursday, 2005-05-12.

Use the CS main page, pages you find on your own, and e-mail sent to you as the source for your answers. To avoid problems, submit your answers as hard copy only.

Answers should be legible (i.e., not hand written), complete, thoughtful, and articulate. You may consult with me via e-mail twice as you develop your answers (probably a good strategy). Shoot for at least one page per question and do not simply copy and paste answers. Use quotes to indicate sources you found elsewhere and provide URLs or references where appropriate. Failure to properly cite sources may lead to a grade of zero for that item!

1. In 1968, Doug Englebart demonstrated a new computer system. Exactly what did he demonstrate? Discuss his demonstration in light of today's technology.

2. What is an agent? Give an example of a software agent and how it works. Give an example of a physical agent and how it works.

3. Is the desktop metaphor dead? Defend or refute this thesis. Be sure to support your arguments with references.

4. Describe how the eBay Web site is set up and comment on its usability. What, if anything, surprised you about our in class eBay transaction?

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