Scientific Collaboratories as Socio-Technical Interaction Networks: A Theoretical Approach

TL;DR

This paper introduces a socio-technical interaction network model, inspired by actor-network theory, to better understand collaborative scientific work in geographically distributed laboratories.

Contribution

It proposes a novel STIN-based framework for analyzing scientific collaboratories, enhancing understanding of their socio-technical dynamics.

Findings

STIN model offers a comprehensive view of collaboratory interactions.

Case studies demonstrate the model's applicability in physics and materials science.

Highlights the importance of socio-technical factors in successful collaboration.

Abstract

Collaboratories refer to laboratories where scientists can work together while they are in distant locations from each other and from key equipment. They have captured the interest both of CSCW researchers and of science funders who wish to optimize the use of rare scientific equipment and expertise. We examine the kind of CSCW conceptions that help us best understand the character of working relationships in these scientific collaboratories. Our model, inspired by actor-network theory, considers technologies as Socio-technical Interaction Networks (STINs). This model provides a rich understanding of the scientific collaboratories, and also a more complete understanding of the conditions and activities that support collaborative work in them. We illustrate the significance of STIN models with several cases drawn from the fields of high energy physics and materials science.