Human service technology and the theory of the actor network.
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Authors
Ballantyne, N.
Keywords
Actor-network theory
Methodology
Research
Methodology
Research
Description of form
Publisher
Rights
Rights holder
Issue Date
2015
Peer-reviewed status
Type
Article
Abstract
This article presents an argument that the body of work known as actor-network theory (ANT) has considerable potential as an analytical framework for the conduct of research inquiries into human service technology applications. Especially so when these inquiries focus on tracing the human and technical factors associated with the adoption of a technological innovation. It introduces and explains some of the key philosophical assumptions of ANT before discussing its methodological implications. The article also offers some practical illustrations of an ANT orientation by applying ANT-related concepts to three articles published in this special issue.
Citation
Ballantyne, N. (2015). Human service technology and the theory of the actor network. Journal of Technology in Human Services, 33(1), 104-117.