The coexistence of local knowledge and gps technology: Looking for Things in the Water
Judy Kalman · 2010
During the period 2000-2003, scientists from a prestigious research cen- tre in Merida, Yucatan set out to study benthic habitats and their relation to lobster fishing in Bahia de la Ascencion on the Caribbean coast of Mexico. They engaged local fishers in the task of finding predetermined sites where sea bottom samples would be collected. The scientists used geographical positioning systems (gps) while the fishers steered their boats and followed precise indications from the re- searchers on where to travel. An unplanned and unexpected result of the original research agenda was the introduction of gps technology into the local fishing prac- tices. Drawing from sociocultural theory, this paper provides insights regarding how the fishers use new technology intertwined with local knowledge to navigate at sea and look for things in the water.