1 An Historical Epistemology of Perception in the Use of Mobile Computers1

Recently, the interaction between humans and mobile computers, as a part of the broader problem of technology use in Human-Computer studies, has received some research attent ion. Researchers have explained mobile technology use in terms rhythms, negotiation, contextual influences and boundary control. However, these explanations do not exude sufficient cognitive accounts of mobile technology use. To supplement existing explanations, the use of mobile computers is explained in terms of the historical epistemology of perception. In this epistemology, perception is deemed as a mode of human action that is endowed with goal-orientation and teleological consciousness. A cognitive-based explanation of mobile technology use will enhance our understanding of the mediating role of technology representations and of how human mobility and mobile work filter these representations in mobile computing. The explanations provide guidelines for research, design and integration of mobile technologies in mobile activities