Putting ICT in the Hands of the Seafarers

Abstract

This paper proposes ethnographic action research on expanding participation in an ICT project in the maritime domain. Concepts from actor network theory are derived to provide a useful perspective on the description and analysis of the case. By analyzing two workshops, the paper discusses how power relations are balanced in a new heterogeneous network of actors, whose dynamical features align different actants’ interests toward a common sense. The relevance of the findings is discussed, related to how we might think about the role of researchers in the empowerment of marginalized groups. In this paper, I posit that the creation of a research and development culture to extend participation is helpful and relevant to making a well-organized technological ecosystem to the detriment of seafarers’ community well-being.