Eliciting situated knowledges about new technologies

Abstract

This paper explores the use of "situated knowledges" as a means of grounding debates about "scientific citizenship" within practical research interventions. We describe the development of a focus group methodology that uses opportunities for storytelling to elicit the situated knowledges of research participants regarding human genetic testing. The application of this methodology is illustrated by attention to the potential construction of what Irwin and Michael have referred to as "ethno-epistemic assemblages." Methodological discussion is preceded by a critical review of recent public participation and "dialogue" initiatives that aim to develop scientific citizenship and more accountable technology decision-making. © SAGE Publications.