We have always built tools to improve our productivity and help us lead better lives however
we find ourselves constantly battling against our new computerized tools making us less
productive and putting our health and our lives at risk. This book looks at Human-Computer
Interaction (HCI) from a truly human-centred perspective focusing on human physiology and
psychology rather than the motley series of brilliant innovations glorified mistakes and
cross-generational habits that comprise the computer-centred HCI that we practice today.This
three-part guide argues that human interest and calm technology need to be at the heart of HCI.
It begins by exposing the inherent dangers in past and present HCI. Using his past experiences
within Anthropology Linguistics Education Ergonomics Human Factors and Computer Science
the author introduces and explores the theory of 'Anthropology-Based Computing' (ABC) as well
as a new ideas like Dynamic Environmental Focus (DEF) a new model of General Human Interaction
(GHI) and a new triune model of the brain: Brown's Representation of Anthropogenic Interaction
in Natural Settings (BRAINS). Detailed illustrations show how HCI can be improved by
considering how human bodies and brains actually work. The final part is a series of simple
illustrated experiments each applying an aspect of ABC to improve the way our computers and
computerized devices treat us.Anthropology-Based Computing is written for those who work with
computers not just those who work on them. Students and researchers in Design and Psychology
and Computer Scientists as well will benefit from seeing what is missing from the devices that
are already in place why that is and how to make the practical changes that will immediately
improve the physiological and psychological experience of using phones on-board navigation
systems and the countless other computers we use at work and at home today and will continue
to use in the future.
