Activity theory as a supportive framework in design of navigation equipment

Abstract

This study reports on the use of Activity Theory as a supportive framework in a design process. Crews on Fast Patrol Boats in the Royal Norwegian Navy were observed during high-speed navigation in coastal waters. The unit of analysis was the navigation team of five persons in their work. Activity was regarded as situated actions shaped by tools, objects and constraints. The framework of Activity Theory was used to form a design language that encompassed the aspects relevant to design and navigation. Based on the findings, a prototype of a automated steering system was built. We suggest that in design process, Activity Theory moves the focus from the technical qualities of artefacts towards how artefacts are used as tools to mediate activity.

Keywords

• activity theory
• design
• ships
• navigation