Final answer:
A user interface element is a control like a soft keyboard that allows for data input, typically text, and is essential for user interaction with applications or operating systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
A user interface element is a user control such as a soft keyboard that enables users to input data, often text. User interface elements include a variety of controls like text boxes, buttons, and toggle switches that provide a way for users to interact with a software application or operating system. Specifically, the soft keyboard is an on-screen keyboard used on touch screen devices, allowing for data entry in the absence of a physical keyboard.