Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item:
http://hdl.handle.net/1942/36527
Title: | CHANGING GOVERNMENTALITIES AT A PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT SERVICE: ALGORITHMIC ACTIVATION, DATA CONTEXTS & THE (IN)DIVIDUAL | Authors: | ZWAENEPOEL, Jannes ZANONI, Patrizia |
Issue Date: | 2021 | Source: | EGOS 2021, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 8-10/07/2021 | Abstract: | This study investigates the effects of algorithmic systems on the ontology and governmentality of jobseekers. Drawing on algorithmic governmentality theory, which conceptualizes algorithmic systems as forming the basis for a new form of governmentality devoid of interest in individuals, we examine the introduction of two novel algorithmic tools at the Belgian Public Employment Service VDAB. For years, their street-level bureaucrats have relied on their personal conversations with jobseekers to determine their self-reliance in the job searching process. Our analysis based on qualitative data highlights how their adoption of two novel algorithms in the form of a digital data dashboard has led to their reconfiguration to data validators instead of gatherers, while refocusing the organization to the creation of extensive data doubles, digital profiles of jobseekers upon which analysis is based. This ultimately leads the counsellors to employ a novel governmentality and ontologically reconfigures the jobseeker as dividuals of which the precise characteristics are no longer of import. This study advances the debate on how algorithms may alter bureaucratic services and even the target of these. Different from the extant literature, we argue that algorithmic technology enables subtle reconfigurations of work process, thus enabling a shift in governmentality. | Keywords: | algorithm;control;digital technology;discretionality;dividuals;governmentality;power;public employment services;work practices | Document URI: | http://hdl.handle.net/1942/36527 | Category: | C2 | Type: | Conference Material |
Appears in Collections: | Research publications |
Files in This Item:
File | Description | Size | Format | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Zwaenepoel & Zanoni - EGOS 2021 full paper.docx Restricted Access | Conference material | 212.93 kB | Microsoft Word | View/Open Request a copy |
Items in DSpace are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.