Author(s):
Eugene Martin* - University of Wisconsin Stevens Point
Abstract:
Considering GIS as knowledge work can reconnect and cast a new light on the social and technical themes of critical GIS and PPGIS. Knowledge work is co-constructed with practice, technology, artifacts and discourse applied for specific purposes. Diverse perspectives on knowledge and knowledge production have been employed to explore and characterize GIS: cartographic knowledge, local knowledge, knowledge management, ontology, Mode 2, and the means to create knowledge about knowledge production. STS concepts and methods related to technology and artifacts have been employed in some of this research. Ethnography is another means to address the complexity of social and technical elements of GIS practices. This paper presents a summary of knowledge work and connects it with the critical GIS and PPGIS research agendas. Implications and methods for research will be discussed.
