[Air-L] Metaphors in Technology

[Gordon Carlson]

Hi All,

I am working on a project dealing with the use of metaphor in
communication about technology, as well as communication within
software.  I am trying to compile a list of metaphors used on the web
and in computer software.  For example, the "shopping cart" in online
shopping, PowerPoint using "slides", "dialog" boxes in operating
systems, "bulletin boards", etc.

Have any of you come across or perhaps even thought of other metaphors
employed in software, online or off, or in communication about
technology?  I would like to make a giant list of examples.

Also, any recommended readings would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for any help!



-Gordon Carlson
-University of Illinois at Chicago
-PhD Student of New Media Communication and RA in Electronic Visualization Lab