Use of photographic images in a research on associated work knowledge

Abstract

Researching work knowledge is a challenge due to the difficulty of the worker to speak about his/her work, among other aspects. This paper approaches the use of photographic images as productive mediation for the investigation on associated work knowledge. It is based on theorizing on the use of photography in research, as well as ergologic perspective on knowledge and work activity. It presents and analyses the methodological procedures adopted in a research developed in a clothing cooperative located in the south of Brazil. The conclusion is that the use of photography as “verisimilitude”, combined with an explicitness of points of view, from a shared experience of work, plays a mediation role that is relevant for the dialogue about work knowledge.

Keywords: work knowledge, research methodology, photograph.