Theocacao: Sensory Memory

Sensory Memory

So I spilled some coffee on my normal "pro" keyboard today. While I'm waiting for it to dry out, I'm using a keyboard from my Blue G3/400. Just like guitars, each keyboard has a different feel to it. This one has much more shallow keys, a softer touch, and more compressed layout.

The interesting thing, though, is that while I'm clicking around on various web sites, I keep getting the impression I'm using IE. In reality, I'm using Safari, but the last time I used this keyboard heavily was before Safari was out. I basically associate certain types/versions of software with the feel at my fingertips.

This isn't so much about web browsers as it is the idea that the things that my senses encounter put me in a particular context. In this case, touch.

Sensory Memory
Posted Nov 8, 2004 — 4 comments below

Dave Giffin — Nov 08, 04 4

I can totally agree with you. When I spend too much time on the PowerMac my PowerBook keyboard is awkward for a while and vice version. And pretty much anytime I have to touch a PC it feels weird and I make a lot more typos than I normally do. Just goes to show that we often depend on our kinesthetic memory.

Larry S. — Nov 08, 04 5

I have to agree here. Right now nay non-powerbook keyboard feels off to me intiially. Enough that it throws me off for a few minutes while I regain the feel.

Scott Stevenson — Nov 08, 04 6

Wintel keyboards tend to be simply brutal. Clunkiness embodied.

Grady Haynes — Nov 09, 04 7

In my mind, this is much of what makes the Mac so "different", particularly for creative work -- consistency and intuitiveness don't just speed up work, they free up mental "cycles" that one can then spend on the work in front of them. I like the one-button no-scroll-wheel mouse for similar reasons, but I digress. <Smile>

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