Editor’s choice
Editor’s choice
The study highlights the need to change how scientists and engineers develop technology to ensure it is fair and considers both technical and social aspects. By combining ideas from science and technology studies with participatory development, the authors present a framework for better technology development. They show their findings through a case study of water monitoring technology created by scientists, engineers and local communities in Vanuatu.
This study shows the importance of changing how scientists and engineers work with technology to ensure it is fair and equitable and considers social factors. The authors use a case study about developing water monitoring technology in Vanuatu, where scientists, engineers and local communities work together.
Through their work in Vanuatu, the authors explored an approach that explicitly responds to challenge of equitable technology development, harnessing a diversity of participatory and creative methods through multiple phases of participant engagement.
The authors recognize that some users are disadvantaged in traditional technology development, often leading to unequal benefits. They emphasize the need to change how technology is developed to better address these inequalities. They suggest a new framework that combines ideas from science and studies about technology with methods of involving communities in the process. The proposed framework highlights the close connection between technology and society, the value of diverse knowledge in creating technology, and the necessity of involving users in the process.
While this framework makes the idea of equitable technology development easier to grasp, it also recognizes the potential challenges and risks. It stresses the need for researchers and practitioners to stay aware and thoughtful about their work to achieve meaningful results. The study advocates for a collaborative approach that combines different fields to ensure technology development is done ethically and inclusively.
Journal article / Researchers promote a co-design framework in medical devices that considers social and inclusive factors to ensure equity technological innovation.
Journal article / Research showcases water quality technology in Vanuatu, merging social science, molecular analysis, and engineering design for remote communities.
Other publication / This report focuses on the potential environmental, health, social and animal welfare implications of the uptake of novel meat and dairy alternatives.
