What is an example of an element of interaction in a graphical user interface?

An interface control is indeed a core element of interaction within a graphical user interface (GUI). These controls serve as the primary means through which users interact with the system, enabling them to perform actions, input data, or navigate the interface. Examples of interface controls include buttons, sliders, dropdown menus, checkboxes, and text fields. Each of these components is designed to facilitate user interaction, making the interface intuitive and accessible.

In contrast, microcopy refers to short text elements that guide or inform users, such as button labels and error messages, but does not itself facilitate interaction. Meta tags are used in web development to provide metadata about web pages, aiding in search engine optimization rather than direct user interaction. Information architecture involves the organization and structure of information within the interface, which aids in usability but is not a direct element of interaction. Therefore, interface controls stand out as the fundamental building blocks that enable users to engage meaningfully with a graphical user interface.