Everyday Wearable Computer Use: A Case Study of an Expert User

Kent Lyons

Proceedings of the 5th International Symposium of Mobile HCI, September 2003

Abstract: Wearable computers are a unique point in the mobile computing design space. In this paper, we examine the use of a wearable in everyday situations. Specifically, we discuss findings from a case study of an expert wearable computer user in an academic research setting over an interval of five weeks. We examine the use of the computer by collecting periodic screen shots of the wearable's display and utilize these screen shots in interview sessions to create a retrospective account of the machine's use and the user's context. This data reveals that the user employs the computer to augment his memory in various ways. We also found evidence of the wearable's use while engaged in another primary task. Furthermore, we discuss the intricate strategies developed by the participant that enable him to utilize the wearable in these roles.

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