Mapping the integrative field: taking stock of socio-technical collaborations

Erik Fisher, Michael O'Rourke, Robert Evans, Eric B. Kennedy, Michael E. Gorman, Thomas P. Seager

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

83 Scopus citations

Abstract

Responsible innovation requires that scientific and other expert practices be responsive to society. We take stock of various collaborative approaches to socio-technical integration that seek to broaden the societal contexts technical experts take into account during their routine activities. Part of a larger family of engaged scholarship that includes inter- and transdisciplinarity as well as stakeholder and public engagement, we distinguish collaborative socio-technical integration in terms of its proximity to and transformation of expert practices. We survey a variety of approaches that differ widely in terms of their integrative methods, conceptions of societal context, roles, and aspirations for intervention. Taking a handful of “communities of integration” as exemplars, we then provide a framework for comparing the forms, means, and ends of collaborative integration. We conclude by reflecting on some of the main features of, and tensions within, this developing arena of practical inquiry and engagement and what this suggests for integrative efforts aimed at responsible innovation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)39-61
Number of pages23
JournalJournal of Responsible Innovation
Volume2
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2 2015

Keywords

  • collaboration
  • public engagement
  • socio-technical integration
  • technology assessment
  • transdisciplinarity

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Strategy and Management
  • Information Systems and Management
  • Management of Technology and Innovation

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