Document Type
Dissertation
Publication Date
6-2014
Department
Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science
Keywords
human-computer interaction, computer procrastination, philosophy of technology, information systems
Abstract
As more and more human living involves interacting with various computer systems, it becomes increasingly important to understand the full picture of what is involved in such computer use. Without such an understanding, we will be limited in our ability to either design systems and practices which maximize benefit and human flourishing, or to recognize, understand, and address dysfunction where it occurs. Basden’s (2008) Human Use of Computers Framework provides a structure for considering many facets of computer use. Based on the philosophy of Herman Dooyeweerd, Basden’s framework considers computer use as the simultaneous functioning of a.) humans interacting with the computer, b.) engaging with the content, and c.) living with computers in their everyday lives. Each of the three categories of functioning can be analysed in each of Dooyeweerd’s 15 aspects of reality. This framework is a promising structure for providing rich understanding, but its ability to provide useful insight had not been tested or verified. The original contribution to knowledge of this thesis is an assessment of the framework and a demonstration that it does indeed provide insight when used to analyse various computer use situations, including complex or problematic situations. It demonstrates this through an analysis of the problem of computer procrastination, which makes a suitable test case because it is complex, interdisciplinary, and understudied. In addition, the thesis extends the framework by providing an understanding of how normativity and responsibility flow between the simultaneous functionings.
Recommended Citation
Breems, N. (2014). Human Use of Computers Framework: Assessment Using the Computer Procrastination Problem. Retrieved from https://digitalcollections.dordt.edu/faculty_work/160
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