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Pen-based Interface

Also known as: Stylus Interface, Pen Computing, Digital Pen Interface

A computer interaction method that uses a stylus or digital pen as the primary input device, typically in combination with a graphics tablet or touchscreen. Pen-based interfaces can support handwriting recognition, gesture commands, and direct manipulation of on-screen objects. For accessibility, pen input has been explored as an alternative to mouse interaction for users who find clicking, dragging, and precise pointer positioning difficult, including older adults and people with certain motor disabilities. Research has shown that simple pen gestures (such as drawing lines in specific directions) can be easier to learn and execute than equivalent mouse-based operations like navigating menus and using keyboard shortcuts.

Category: Human-Computer Interaction · Assistive Technology

Related: Gesture Input · Alternative Input Device · WIMP · Tablet Input

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