Extending Cognitive Work Analysis for embodiment: ecological psychology, activity theory and Worker Competency Analysis

ABSTRACTWith the growth of novel embedded technologies, human interaction with ‘smart’ environments will require a comprehensive conceptualisation of the body and embodied cognition. Thus, producing a requirement for work analysis approaches to address the embodied aspects of work systems. Correspondingly, this article presents two interrelated items. First, it extends Cognitive Work Analysis (CWA) on the basis of embodiment, ecological psychology and activity theory. The embodied approach to cognition emphasises that human knowing (cognition) is shaped by the body and behaviour: the body, mind and activity are intricately entwined. In extending CWA for the embodiment, this article presents the second contribution in terms of the ‘embodiment hierarchy’ in the fifth phase of CWA – Worker Competency Analysis, for addressing the constraints related to embodiment. An example in the nanotechnology domain is provided to demonstrate the above-mentioned concepts.