Leela Damodaran | Loughborough University (original) (raw)
Chapters by Leela Damodaran
Draft of Chapter six in A. Walker (Ed) The new science of ageing.
Papers by Leela Damodaran
Applied Ergonomics, Mar 1, 2014
1969 Occupational Psychologist, EMI Electronics 1970 Deputy Director, HUSAT Research Group and Re... more 1969 Occupational Psychologist, EMI Electronics 1970 Deputy Director, HUSAT Research Group and Research Fellow, Loughborough University of Technology 1971 Lecturer, Department of Ergonomics and Cybernetics, Loughborough University 1978–1989 Senior Lecturer, Lecturer and Reader in Cognitive Ergonomics 1989–2002 Professor of Cognitive Ergonomics 1989–1993/2000–2002 Head of the Department of Human Sciences, Loughborough University 1992–1996 Director of the HUSAT (Human Sciences and Advanced Technology) Research Institute 1999–2000 Director, Research School in Ergonomics and Human Factors 2002– Emeritus Professor of Cognitive Ergonomics 2002–2007 Director, The Bayswater Institute 2007– Senior Consultant, The Bayswater Institute
Applied Ergonomics, 2014
1969 Occupational Psychologist, EMI Electronics 1970 Deputy Director, HUSAT Research Group and Re... more 1969 Occupational Psychologist, EMI Electronics 1970 Deputy Director, HUSAT Research Group and Research Fellow, Loughborough University of Technology 1971 Lecturer, Department of Ergonomics and Cybernetics, Loughborough University 1978–1989 Senior Lecturer, Lecturer and Reader in Cognitive Ergonomics 1989–2002 Professor of Cognitive Ergonomics 1989–1993/2000–2002 Head of the Department of Human Sciences, Loughborough University 1992–1996 Director of the HUSAT (Human Sciences and Advanced Technology) Research Institute 1999–2000 Director, Research School in Ergonomics and Human Factors 2002– Emeritus Professor of Cognitive Ergonomics 2002–2007 Director, The Bayswater Institute 2007– Senior Consultant, The Bayswater Institute
Kluwer Academic Publishers eBooks, Jun 16, 2006
ABSTRACT Whilst virtual organizations are enabled via existing and emerging technologies, they re... more ABSTRACT Whilst virtual organizations are enabled via existing and emerging technologies, they remain principally human constructs. The authors argue that the success of the VO throughout its lifecycle, from creation to dissolution, relies on its capability to create and sustain value. In this context, the human capital of the VO, and more generally, its ‘intangible assets’ play a determinant role. Thus the socio-organizational ‘equation’ consists of a combination of technology, culture, and organization, in which issues including trust, confidentiality, knowledge sharing, etc., must be blended successfully toward the shared VO purpose. This chapter explores the social and organizational aspects of virtual organizations and highlights important issues that need addressing in order to negotiate the necessary transition from a traditional to a knowledge driven organization that can engage effectively in knowledge driven alliances characterized by virtual business modes.
Policy Press eBooks, Feb 28, 2018
International Conference on the Digital Society, Feb 22, 2015
Technologies for Active Aging, 2013
Much has been written about the benefits, for example, greater independence, autonomy, and dignit... more Much has been written about the benefits, for example, greater independence, autonomy, and dignity, which can derive from the use of assistive technologies with older people (Loader, Hardey, & Keeble, 2009; McCreadie & Tinker, 2005; Poser & Moser, 2009). These benefits have been well researched, clearly expressed in the literature, and remain uncontested here. Apart from benefits to individuals and carers, assistive technologies can release funds for other applications, and where this is in care settings funded through public expenditure, the cost savings that might arise from their application may afford the opportunity for more effective targeting of taxpayer’s resources. As the Audit Commission (guardian of public expenditure in the UK) noted, the use of technology represents the unusual possibility of providing cost savings at the same time as better service provision (Audit Commission, 2004). The merits then are evident. But there is a need also to be alert to the ethical questions that arise as a concomitant to the use of new technologies and to address what Mort, Roberts, and Milligan (2009) have argued is an “ethical and democratic deficit in this field which has arisen due to a proliferation in research and development of advanced care technologies that has not been accompanied by sufficient consideration of their social context” (p. 85). This chapter will raise these ethical issues, alight on the potential deficits, and highlight some of the policy and practical issues that might warrant further inquiry. It does so by addressing three key areas. First, it considers ethical approaches commonly in use and their limitations for application in the field of assistive technologies. Second, it explores the ethical issues that arise around the design and execution of research with users of assistive technologies. Third, it raises the question of whether or not assistive technologies contribute to a better quality of life (QoL) for recipients, not least because QoL is explicitly included as an intended policy outcome of the deployment of such technologies (Scottish Government, 2009; Telecare Services, 2010). The chapter draws its examples primarily from the experience of the UK (and its devolved polities), where the policy objectives of governments for extending the use of assistive technologies are particularly ambitious. We are mindful of the methodological pitfalls of cross-national applicability, but the discussion should have broader resonance, as ethical approaches and practices come to terms with a technologically fast-changing world. Our use of the term assistive technologies embraces the definition of any item, piece of equipment, product, or system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities (Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act, 1988 P.L.100/407); more practicably, as Cowan and Turner Smith (cited in McCreadie & Tinker, 2005) note, it refers to any device or system that allows an individual to perform a task that they would otherwise be unable to do or increases the ease and safety with which the task can be performed. We note in particular that some of the more interesting ethical challenges have arrived with the advent of telecare sensor-based technologies, which open up important issues around privacy, autonomy, and the potential for replacement of human care through remote monitoring.
The New Dynamics of Ageing Volume 1
Globally, older people have tended to be relatively slow adopters of ICTs. As services and facili... more Globally, older people have tended to be relatively slow adopters of ICTs. As services and facilities are increasingly delivered online, concerns about the implications for social inclusion and participation have spawned many initiatives aimed at encouraging older peoples' digital engagement. However little attention has been paid to whether and how their usage can be sustained over time. This chapter describes the research undertaken in the Sus-IT project, which sought to address this gap. The aims were to examine older people’s use of information and communication technologies (ICTs), to identify the factors which can prevent or promote sustained use, and to explore solutions to support sustained use. A participatory, mixed methods approach was adopted, and around 1000 older ICT users were involved in the research. The findings show that while many older people are enthusiastic, competent and confident users of ICTs, they also report a range of challenges in reaching and maint...
computing.dundee.ac.uk
The Digital Economy is fast emerging both as a key driver of economic activity and as an importan... more The Digital Economy is fast emerging both as a key driver of economic activity and as an important enabler of its growth. For this societal phenomenon to deliver enhancements in the quality of life and improve the life chances of all will require a strategic approach to its development and evolution. Without this, there is a real risk of greater exclusion, since, to be digitally excluded is in many respects to be socially excluded, as is reflected in the current Government initiative entitled 'Delivering Digital Inclusion'. To develop a digital economy ...
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 1999
The universal impact of Large Scale Engineering (LSE) projects is in evidence in diverse aspects ... more The universal impact of Large Scale Engineering (LSE) projects is in evidence in diverse aspects of the personal and working lives of citizens around the globe. This does not only include the direct impact of the LSE product or facility but also encompasses the effects on society resulting from new ways of working. These new ways of working have been visualized by the eLSEwise (European Large Scale Engineering Wide Integration Support Effort) project as part of its postulated vision of how LSE construction projects may be delivered in the future, fully utilizing the benefits of emergent information and communication technologies to satisfy the business needs. This paper describes different effects on society resulting from LSE construction products and processes based on the eLSEwise vision and provides recommendations for ensuring that the benefits to society can be achieved.
Ergonomics, 1997
The aim of this study was to gather and collate information from the major researchers and consul... more The aim of this study was to gather and collate information from the major researchers and consultancies in the UK regarding the performance of Information Technology (IT) and the role of human and organizational factors. The findings are based on the experience of 45 ...
This paper considers the vision and aspiration of digital inclusion, and then examines the curren... more This paper considers the vision and aspiration of digital inclusion, and then examines the current reality. It looks beyond the rhetoric to provide an analysis of the status quo, a consideration of some facilitators and challenges to progress and some suggestions for moving forward with renewed energy and commitment. The far-reaching benefits of digital inclusion and the crucial role it plays in enabling full participation in our digital society are considered. At the heart of the vision of universal digital inclusion is the deceptively simple goal to ensure that everyone is able to access and experience the wide-ranging benefits and transformational opportunities and impacts it offers. The reality is a long way from the vision: inequality of access still exists despite many national campaigns and initiatives to reduce it. The benefits and beneficiaries of a digital society are not just the individual but all stakeholders in the wider society [1]. Research evidence has shown that th...
Draft of Chapter six in A. Walker (Ed) The new science of ageing.
Applied Ergonomics, Mar 1, 2014
1969 Occupational Psychologist, EMI Electronics 1970 Deputy Director, HUSAT Research Group and Re... more 1969 Occupational Psychologist, EMI Electronics 1970 Deputy Director, HUSAT Research Group and Research Fellow, Loughborough University of Technology 1971 Lecturer, Department of Ergonomics and Cybernetics, Loughborough University 1978–1989 Senior Lecturer, Lecturer and Reader in Cognitive Ergonomics 1989–2002 Professor of Cognitive Ergonomics 1989–1993/2000–2002 Head of the Department of Human Sciences, Loughborough University 1992–1996 Director of the HUSAT (Human Sciences and Advanced Technology) Research Institute 1999–2000 Director, Research School in Ergonomics and Human Factors 2002– Emeritus Professor of Cognitive Ergonomics 2002–2007 Director, The Bayswater Institute 2007– Senior Consultant, The Bayswater Institute
Applied Ergonomics, 2014
1969 Occupational Psychologist, EMI Electronics 1970 Deputy Director, HUSAT Research Group and Re... more 1969 Occupational Psychologist, EMI Electronics 1970 Deputy Director, HUSAT Research Group and Research Fellow, Loughborough University of Technology 1971 Lecturer, Department of Ergonomics and Cybernetics, Loughborough University 1978–1989 Senior Lecturer, Lecturer and Reader in Cognitive Ergonomics 1989–2002 Professor of Cognitive Ergonomics 1989–1993/2000–2002 Head of the Department of Human Sciences, Loughborough University 1992–1996 Director of the HUSAT (Human Sciences and Advanced Technology) Research Institute 1999–2000 Director, Research School in Ergonomics and Human Factors 2002– Emeritus Professor of Cognitive Ergonomics 2002–2007 Director, The Bayswater Institute 2007– Senior Consultant, The Bayswater Institute
Kluwer Academic Publishers eBooks, Jun 16, 2006
ABSTRACT Whilst virtual organizations are enabled via existing and emerging technologies, they re... more ABSTRACT Whilst virtual organizations are enabled via existing and emerging technologies, they remain principally human constructs. The authors argue that the success of the VO throughout its lifecycle, from creation to dissolution, relies on its capability to create and sustain value. In this context, the human capital of the VO, and more generally, its ‘intangible assets’ play a determinant role. Thus the socio-organizational ‘equation’ consists of a combination of technology, culture, and organization, in which issues including trust, confidentiality, knowledge sharing, etc., must be blended successfully toward the shared VO purpose. This chapter explores the social and organizational aspects of virtual organizations and highlights important issues that need addressing in order to negotiate the necessary transition from a traditional to a knowledge driven organization that can engage effectively in knowledge driven alliances characterized by virtual business modes.
Policy Press eBooks, Feb 28, 2018
International Conference on the Digital Society, Feb 22, 2015
Technologies for Active Aging, 2013
Much has been written about the benefits, for example, greater independence, autonomy, and dignit... more Much has been written about the benefits, for example, greater independence, autonomy, and dignity, which can derive from the use of assistive technologies with older people (Loader, Hardey, & Keeble, 2009; McCreadie & Tinker, 2005; Poser & Moser, 2009). These benefits have been well researched, clearly expressed in the literature, and remain uncontested here. Apart from benefits to individuals and carers, assistive technologies can release funds for other applications, and where this is in care settings funded through public expenditure, the cost savings that might arise from their application may afford the opportunity for more effective targeting of taxpayer’s resources. As the Audit Commission (guardian of public expenditure in the UK) noted, the use of technology represents the unusual possibility of providing cost savings at the same time as better service provision (Audit Commission, 2004). The merits then are evident. But there is a need also to be alert to the ethical questions that arise as a concomitant to the use of new technologies and to address what Mort, Roberts, and Milligan (2009) have argued is an “ethical and democratic deficit in this field which has arisen due to a proliferation in research and development of advanced care technologies that has not been accompanied by sufficient consideration of their social context” (p. 85). This chapter will raise these ethical issues, alight on the potential deficits, and highlight some of the policy and practical issues that might warrant further inquiry. It does so by addressing three key areas. First, it considers ethical approaches commonly in use and their limitations for application in the field of assistive technologies. Second, it explores the ethical issues that arise around the design and execution of research with users of assistive technologies. Third, it raises the question of whether or not assistive technologies contribute to a better quality of life (QoL) for recipients, not least because QoL is explicitly included as an intended policy outcome of the deployment of such technologies (Scottish Government, 2009; Telecare Services, 2010). The chapter draws its examples primarily from the experience of the UK (and its devolved polities), where the policy objectives of governments for extending the use of assistive technologies are particularly ambitious. We are mindful of the methodological pitfalls of cross-national applicability, but the discussion should have broader resonance, as ethical approaches and practices come to terms with a technologically fast-changing world. Our use of the term assistive technologies embraces the definition of any item, piece of equipment, product, or system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities (Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act, 1988 P.L.100/407); more practicably, as Cowan and Turner Smith (cited in McCreadie & Tinker, 2005) note, it refers to any device or system that allows an individual to perform a task that they would otherwise be unable to do or increases the ease and safety with which the task can be performed. We note in particular that some of the more interesting ethical challenges have arrived with the advent of telecare sensor-based technologies, which open up important issues around privacy, autonomy, and the potential for replacement of human care through remote monitoring.
The New Dynamics of Ageing Volume 1
Globally, older people have tended to be relatively slow adopters of ICTs. As services and facili... more Globally, older people have tended to be relatively slow adopters of ICTs. As services and facilities are increasingly delivered online, concerns about the implications for social inclusion and participation have spawned many initiatives aimed at encouraging older peoples' digital engagement. However little attention has been paid to whether and how their usage can be sustained over time. This chapter describes the research undertaken in the Sus-IT project, which sought to address this gap. The aims were to examine older people’s use of information and communication technologies (ICTs), to identify the factors which can prevent or promote sustained use, and to explore solutions to support sustained use. A participatory, mixed methods approach was adopted, and around 1000 older ICT users were involved in the research. The findings show that while many older people are enthusiastic, competent and confident users of ICTs, they also report a range of challenges in reaching and maint...
computing.dundee.ac.uk
The Digital Economy is fast emerging both as a key driver of economic activity and as an importan... more The Digital Economy is fast emerging both as a key driver of economic activity and as an important enabler of its growth. For this societal phenomenon to deliver enhancements in the quality of life and improve the life chances of all will require a strategic approach to its development and evolution. Without this, there is a real risk of greater exclusion, since, to be digitally excluded is in many respects to be socially excluded, as is reflected in the current Government initiative entitled 'Delivering Digital Inclusion'. To develop a digital economy ...
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 1999
The universal impact of Large Scale Engineering (LSE) projects is in evidence in diverse aspects ... more The universal impact of Large Scale Engineering (LSE) projects is in evidence in diverse aspects of the personal and working lives of citizens around the globe. This does not only include the direct impact of the LSE product or facility but also encompasses the effects on society resulting from new ways of working. These new ways of working have been visualized by the eLSEwise (European Large Scale Engineering Wide Integration Support Effort) project as part of its postulated vision of how LSE construction projects may be delivered in the future, fully utilizing the benefits of emergent information and communication technologies to satisfy the business needs. This paper describes different effects on society resulting from LSE construction products and processes based on the eLSEwise vision and provides recommendations for ensuring that the benefits to society can be achieved.
Ergonomics, 1997
The aim of this study was to gather and collate information from the major researchers and consul... more The aim of this study was to gather and collate information from the major researchers and consultancies in the UK regarding the performance of Information Technology (IT) and the role of human and organizational factors. The findings are based on the experience of 45 ...
This paper considers the vision and aspiration of digital inclusion, and then examines the curren... more This paper considers the vision and aspiration of digital inclusion, and then examines the current reality. It looks beyond the rhetoric to provide an analysis of the status quo, a consideration of some facilitators and challenges to progress and some suggestions for moving forward with renewed energy and commitment. The far-reaching benefits of digital inclusion and the crucial role it plays in enabling full participation in our digital society are considered. At the heart of the vision of universal digital inclusion is the deceptively simple goal to ensure that everyone is able to access and experience the wide-ranging benefits and transformational opportunities and impacts it offers. The reality is a long way from the vision: inequality of access still exists despite many national campaigns and initiatives to reduce it. The benefits and beneficiaries of a digital society are not just the individual but all stakeholders in the wider society [1]. Research evidence has shown that th...
This paper considers the vision and aspiration of digital inclusion, and then examines the curren... more This paper considers the vision and aspiration of digital inclusion, and then examines the current reality. It looks beyond the rhetoric to provide an analysis of the status quo, a consideration of some facilitators and challenges to progress and some suggestions for moving forward with renewed energy and commitment. The far-reaching benefits of digital inclusion and the crucial role it plays in enabling full participation in our digital society are considered. At the heart of the vision of universal digital inclusion is the deceptively simple goal to ensure that everyone is able to access and experience the wide-ranging benefits and transformational opportunities and impacts it offers. The reality is a long way from the vision: inequality of access still exists despite many national campaigns and initiatives to reduce it. The benefits and beneficiaries of a digital society are not just the individual but all stakeholders in the wider society. Research evidence has shown that the cr...