Not as simple as it looks: led outdoor activities are complex sociotechnical systems

Anthony W Carden; Natassia Goode; Paul M Salmon

doi:10.1080/1463922X.2017.1278806

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Not as simple as it looks: led outdoor activities are complex sociotechnical systems

Journal article

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Not as simple as it looks: led outdoor activities are complex sociotechnical systems

Anthony W Carden, Natassia Goode and Paul M Salmon

Theoretical Issues in Ergonomics Science, Vol.18(4), pp.318-337

2017

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/1463922X.2017.1278806

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Abstract

adventure activities

adventure education

complexity

outdoor activities

outdoor education

outdoor recreation

sociotechnical systems

Recent research is providing valuable insights into safety by applying sociotechnical systems (STS) theory to led outdoor activity (LOA) work systems. The LOA domain involves provision of supervised or instructed activities such as kayaking, rock climbing and camping. Despite these successful applications, questions persist regarding the extent to which STS theory and methods are applicable, given the apparently simplistic nature of the domain. This paper seeks to evaluate the validity of systems theoretic approaches by comparing a typical LOA work system with established characteristics of STS and complex systems. Features of the LOA work system are compared with established characteristics of complexity, then considered in relation to STS theory principles. The findings show that this system of work is indeed both complex and sociotechnical. It is concluded that application of STS theory and methods is both appropriate and required to attain improvements in practice and safety in LOA work systems.

Details

Title: Not as simple as it looks: led outdoor activities are complex sociotechnical systems
Authors: Anthony W Carden (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Arts, Business and Law
Natassia Goode (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Arts, Business and Law
Paul M Salmon (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Arts, Business and Law
Publication details: Theoretical Issues in Ergonomics Science, Vol.18(4), pp.318-337
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd.
Date published: 2017
DOI: 10.1080/1463922X.2017.1278806
ISSN: 1463-922X
Organisation Unit: Centre for Human Factors and Systems Science; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Law and Society
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99450598102621
Output Type: Journal article

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