Lost in translations: A socio-technical study of interactive videoconferencing at an Australian university

"This thesis examines the socio-technical interplay that occurred during and after the introduction of an information and communication technology (ICT) specifically, interactive videoconferencing (IVC) into a contemporary university. It investigates the work and negotiations that transpired as a vision for a new multi-campus model of teaching was translated into reality and the subsequent translations that occurred after implementation. Based on the methodological principles of actor-network theory (ANT), the research design uses qualitative data collection and analysis techniques. Documents and other artefacts were gathered; participant observation notes were taken; and individual and focus group interviews were undertaken. The data analysis strategy is a process of initial data categorisation, followed by the use of Callons (1986b) concept of the Sociology of Translation as an analytical lens to interrogate the work and negotiations around IVC that unfolded over a sixteen year period (19922008). The thesis conceptualises change as an open-ended process of translations. The translations are a consequence of socio-technical negotiations that occur when a new technology is introduced into an organisation. Actors in the socially and technically mediated networks become lost in the many translations that occur during the life of the technology. The research design developed in this study, where ANT is deployed conceptually, methodologically and analytically, offers a valuable approach to investigating the translations that occur during the implementation and maintenance of an ICT in a university setting. A significant finding is a process of reviewing and reproblematising the technological innovation after its implementation. This negates the potential for acts of dissidence to adversely affect the innovation and associated work practices." -- abstract