Abstract
Homes are essential contexts in which to understand how technologies are used and
experienced. At the same time they hold substantial challenges for conducting research, exploring novel designs, and building understanding. In this paper we review approaches to studying the home, including recent innovations and issues that should guide further methodological reflection. We draw on the expertise of a large number of researchers experienced in studying technology in the home, who have formed a community to map the space of methods in use and share their experiences of the key issues faced in practice.
Themes include utilising new technology as a source of data as well as an object of study, creating representations of home life that support discussion and reflection, revealing details of important yet routine or mundane activities, and supporting participation to overcome thecomplex ethical and privacy concerns inherent in the study of the home.
experienced. At the same time they hold substantial challenges for conducting research, exploring novel designs, and building understanding. In this paper we review approaches to studying the home, including recent innovations and issues that should guide further methodological reflection. We draw on the expertise of a large number of researchers experienced in studying technology in the home, who have formed a community to map the space of methods in use and share their experiences of the key issues faced in practice.
Themes include utilising new technology as a source of data as well as an object of study, creating representations of home life that support discussion and reflection, revealing details of important yet routine or mundane activities, and supporting participation to overcome thecomplex ethical and privacy concerns inherent in the study of the home.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 159-184 |
| Journal | PsychNology Journal |
| Volume | 11 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| Publication status | Published - 31 Dec 2013 |