Abstract
This paper analyzes epistemological and ontological dimensions of
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) through an analysis of the functions
of computer systems in relation to their users. It is argued that
the primary relation between humans and computer systems has historically
been epistemic: computers are used as information-processing and
problem-solving tools that extend human cognition, thereby creating
hybrid cognitive systems consisting of a human processor and an artificial
processor that process information in tandem. In this role, computer
systems extend human cognition. Next, it is argued that in recent
years, the epistemic relation between humans and computers has been
supplemented by an ontic relation. Current computer systems are able
to simulate virtual and social environments that extend the interactive
possibilities found in the physical environment. This type of relationship
is primarily ontic, and extends to objects and places that have a
virtual ontology. Increasingly, computers are not just information
devices, but portals to worlds that we inhabit. The aforementioned
epistemic and ontic relationships are unique to information technology
and distinguish human-computer relationships from other human-technology
relationships.
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