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WJ Clancey — Visualizing Practical Knowledge

Study use of computer technology in the field—The mobile workstation

My original reason for joining the HMP-98 expedition was to study my colleague’s
“mobile workstation”—to observe its capabilities and to convey the methodology of
design in the context of use (Figure 3). The design concept involves computer technology
for recording data and integrated records. Our prototype mobile workstation was just a
laptop computer strapped to an ATV, with a black hood that allowed the screen to be
viewed outdoors.

Figure 3: “Mobile workstation” — recording activities of astrobiologist on a steep
slope at Haughton Crater

The photo illustrates why analog studies are necessary. In planning the experiment, we
never considered or discussed the use of the workstation on a hill. Yet, in the field, that’s
where some of the biological studies were carried out. These hills were so steep and
slippery with gravel, it was necessary to park the ATV many meters away from the field
scientist (visible to the left). Consequently, the video camera produced only a tiny image
of the excavation work.

In retrospect, we might have interviewed experienced people in advance and determined
that a hand-held camera would be better. But in general, the interaction of work practice,
spatial layout, and technologies is not easily anticipated. Even with better equipment,
we’d need the experiment in the context of use to determine, for example, whether a
robotic camera could be devised that would automatically follow and record the field
work.

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