Sociotechnical Planning

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Define Ropohol (1999) tell us that sociotechnical plans merge complex problems of societies with technology. The example of Henry Ford’s assembly line was used as an example of sociotechnical planning. Ford solved complex issues of employment, worker benefits, plant productivity, and profitability through the use of the automobile assembly line.

Describe In the case of the Hayashi and Baranauskas (2013) study it the use of small laptops in a Brazilian schools in Sao Paulo. The study used the computer as a means for students to work outside the boundaries of normal school time in conjunction with homework assignments. The variables of student engagement were broken into 3 categories of informal, formal, and technical levels. The study hypothesized that student engagement and willingness would increase if students were able to use the technologies available through laptop use to study in school as well as through homework assignments in and out of class.

Evaluation In the affectability study (Hayashi and Baranauskas, 2013) the authors demonstrated a need for technology in the student’s school program. It was felt that various problems could be solved through the re-defining of homework in and outside of class. Effective use of the laptops allowed students to engage and feel that the work was more relevant to a work flow that was already a part of their normal activates. Even students with behavioral issues became more engaged with the assignments. Various scenarios proved the use of the laptops would have multiple benefits.

The study did not have one goal, but based on the complexities of the student society would attempt to solve most of the issues. It seams that the study knew that it was not going to be a perfect solution, but if most of the goals were achieved, then a successful outcome would occur. Some societal issues arose because of the nature of the surrounding neighborhoods and parental issues. Overall the issues were outweighed by the positive outcomes. The sociotechnical plan was proven as a reliable and desirable problem-solving path. Issues of technology, such as broadband availability will be eventually solved, as Internet solutions become more availability through government infrastructures.

References Ropohl, G. (1999, January 1). Society for Philosophy and Technology. http://scholar.lib.vt.edu/ejournals/SPT/v4_n3html/ROPOHL.html

Hayashi, E. S., & Baranauskas, M. C. (2013). Affectability in educational technologies: A socio-technical perspective for design. Journal Of Educational Technology & Society, 16(1), 57–68.