Thinking with a tool - what age and technology use reveals about cognition

Abstract: Technology is often used as a method in memory intervention but there is a gap between what we know about memory processes and the interaction with technology tools (Topo, 2009; Dascal & Dror, 2005; Hjälmedelsinstitutet, 2011). This study aims to investigate how human use our memory in a real world setting and how we valuate a technological memory tool developed to support mild memory decline. It is measured by a semi structured interview and user evaluation questionnaires of a technological memory aid. The opinions of two groups, one with elderly and one with young participants with a total of N=20 individuals were collected and compared to each other. The result indicates that individuals are different depending on experience and culture so that one assistive technology does not fit a whole target group. Another result also seen in the study is that internal and external memory strategies seem to be intrinsically interconnected with each other. Earlier studies show a gap in the research between how human memory processes works and how the design of technological products is outlined. Activity theory is suggested as a preferable framework for the study of human cognitive processes such as memory.