An instrument to facilitate value-driven conversations on surveillance technology

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Ethics in Technology
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Care technology implementation presents ethical dilemmas, particularly concerning surveillance technologies.
• Understanding stakeholder values is crucial for successful technology adoption and addressing ethical concerns.
• Schwartz's theory of human values provides a framework for predicting attitudes and behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a conversational instrument for exploring stakeholder values on surveillance technologies.
• To adapt Schwartz's values model into a tool suitable for diverse stakeholder backgrounds.
• To facilitate ethical discussions surrounding the use of surveillance technologies in care settings.

Main Methods:

• Integrated and adapted Schwartz's ten and nineteen values model, Personal Value Dictionary, Portrait Values Questionnaire, and Schwartz's Value Survey.
• Developed tailored value cards through an iterative process involving expert consultation.
• Validated the value cards in 34 interviews with stakeholders in nursing homes.

Main Results:

• An iterative process yielded a concept version of value cards, refined through expert feedback and member checks.
• Value cards effectively assisted participants in articulating their values.
• Participants found the cards useful for reflecting on surveillance technology considerations.

Conclusions:

• Value cards facilitated stakeholder articulation of core principles regarding surveillance technologies.
• The instrument shows potential for exploring values related to complex technological innovations in psychogeriatric care.
• This approach supports ethical considerations in the application of surveillance technologies in aged care settings.