Synthesis and Extension

Info 20314 Feb 2013

Today

• Elisa wrapping up Rogers and Cowan• Questions about assignment 1• Questions about theory and readings• The ANT photo assignment• Theories in OLPC (if time)

Assignment 1

Can we use readings from week 4 -- Rogers & Cowan, OLPC?

You can use all the readings we have read so far, but you don't have to. Rogers & Cowan are definitely relevant. However, the OLPC article doesn’t advance a new theoretical approach.

Assignment 1

You don't need to cite anything outside of class or do original research for assignment 1.

Assignment 1

Just analyze the quoted paragraphs, not the full articles we link to.

Assignment 1

Are we looking for specific authors in each question? No, but try to use a diversity of authors, because some authors will be better suited for certain questions.

Assignment 1

Look at the grading criteria:

Assignment 1

The assignment says “about 500 words,” more than 100 words over/under will affect your grade.Put the word count at the end of your paper.

Theories

What is a theoretical approach? A way of studying technology and society that abstracts beyond the specific case study.

We have read some canonical texts for:Technological determinism (hard and softer versions), Fischer’s User Heuristic, Bijker’s SCOT, Latour’s Actor-Network Theory, Rogers’ diffusion of innovation, Cowan’s consumption junction

Technological Determinism• (HARD) technological determinism: science develops

according to an internal and purely rational process and technology is the application of science. Technological inventions enter into society, are taken up according to an economic rationality and consequently produce a social impact.

Science Tech Society

R&D

Technological Determinism(s)

• ‘Billiard-ball’ model (Ogburn 1950s)• Comparing national trajectories – consequences are

socially conditioned -- i.e. different trajectories for the trolley in different countries

• ‘Impact—imprint’ model – an essence or style to technology, technology transfers its qualities to users

Alternatives to Tech Determinism

• Symptomatic approaches – tech as expression of culture, Geist – spirit of the age (rationalization in the industrial age)

• Social Constructivism – struggle, negotiation over development and invention by users and non-users (see Bjiker bicycle next week)

• Fischer’s “User Heuristic” – emphasizing user agency in realizing the unfolding consequences of technology, particularly in how it is used

Theories

Fischer: What is a User Heuristic?“This heuristic, or instructive tool for thinking about technology… emphasizes the users rather than the imperative properties of the technology” (p. 19)

Theories

Actor-network theory:

ANT: You can talk about anything from this perspective, but it won't necessarily be interesting.

Theories

ANT focuses on how:• Non-humans play a role in

enforcing morals and norms• Delegation makes a difference• Networks have effects

ANT Photo assignment

ANT Photo assignment

ANT Photo assignment

Can OLPC Save the World’s Poor?

How is this article in conversation with other texts we have read?

What theories or approaches does it not discuss?