Exploring a Case of Surveillance

Pedagogical and Programmatic Influence(s) of Biometric Technology

Abstract

This article provides insights into the programmatic and pedagogical impacts of a research study and its exigency in technical communication classes/programs. Grounded in surveillance studies and technical communication, this study defines biometric identification technologies as personal identifiers of the body, focusing specifically on how neonatal nurses use and perceive such technologies within the context of the United States healthcare system. Drawing from a corpus of communication materials from biometric companies, questionnaires, and ten interviews with neonatal nurses, this study explores how major themes and takeaways from the data collection     can be implemented in the technical communication classroom. Technical communication courses may benefit from exploration of surveillance technologies in healthcare (and other sites of surveillance). As healthcare (and many other industries) become increasingly reliant on digital technologies, it is imperative for faculty (and students) to explore the ways pervasive technologies impact our agency, privacy, communication practices, and personal/professional lives and careers.