Emerging policy problems related to ubiquitous computing
negotiating stakeholders' visions of the future
pp. 191-203
Résumé
This paper provides an overview of the human-centered vision of Ubiquitous Computing and draws on research examining slowly emerging problems over a long-term time frame in the emerging Ubiquitous Computing environment. A six-phase process employing scenario planning, electronic focus groups, and problem assessment surveys harnessed the insight of 165 individuals from diverse backgrounds and regions throughout the State of Hawaii. Distinct differences were found between the problem identification of specialists (policy makers and systems designers) and nonspecialists (everyday citizens), and there were significant differences found in the problem assessment between groups. The greatest differences in both phases emerged from social and psychological issues related to the emerging Ubiquitous Computing environment. It is argued that in addition to enormous technical changes, Ubiquitous Computing will serve to blur sociotechnical boundaries throughout the environment, challenging existing distinctions between humans and machine intelligences. As the potential for extending human capabilities via computing and communications technology is actualized in coming decades, what it means to be human will be a major source of public policy conflicts, and the early identification of problems related to these changes is essential in order to mitigate their impacts and socially negotiate a more desirable future.
Détails de la publication
Publié dans:
Allingham Peter, Raahauge Kirsten Marie (2008) Constructing significant spaces. Knowledge, Technology & Policy 21 (4).
Pages: 191-203
DOI: 10.1007/s12130-008-9058-4
Citation complète:
Winter Jenifer S., 2008, Emerging policy problems related to ubiquitous computing: negotiating stakeholders' visions of the future. Knowledge, Technology & Policy 21 (4), Constructing significant spaces, 191-203. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12130-008-9058-4.