We report findings from an ongoing panel study of 68 U.S.-based online freelancers, focusing here... more We report findings from an ongoing panel study of 68 U.S.-based online freelancers, focusing here on their experiences both pre- and in-pandemic. We see online freelancing as providing a window into one future of work: collaborative knowledge work that is paid by the project and mediated by a digital labor platform. The study’s purposive sampling provides for both empirical and conceptual insights into the occupational differences and career plans of freelance workers. The timing of the 2020 data collection provides insight into household changes as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings make clear these workers are facing diminished work flexibility and increased earning uncertainty. And, data show women are more likely than men to reduce working hours to help absorb the increased share of caregiving and other domestic responsibilities. This raises questions of online freelancing as a viable career path or sustainable source of work.
Education for the information profession is in a state of radical change and re-design. Academic ... more Education for the information profession is in a state of radical change and re-design. Academic units are being reorganized around new interdisciplinary paradigms, while new curriculums are being developed to address the needs of a growing and diverse information profession. Existing schools, which offer multiple information degrees and are based upon interdisciplinary models, such as Syracuse, Pittsburgh, Drexel and Rutgers universities have been or are now joined by others, such as the University of Michigan ...
PDIs are emerging as alternative sociotechnical infrastructures to enhance flexible work arrangme... more PDIs are emerging as alternative sociotechnical infrastructures to enhance flexible work arrangments.
We report findings from an ongoing panel study of 68 U.S.-based online freelancers, focusing here... more We report findings from an ongoing panel study of 68 U.S.-based online freelancers, focusing here on their experiences both pre- and in-pandemic. We see online freelancing as providing a window into one future of work: collaborative knowledge work that is paid by the project and mediated by a digital labor platform. The study’s purposive sampling provides for both empirical and conceptual insights into the occupational differences and career plans of freelance workers. The timing of the 2020 data collection provides insight into household changes as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings make clear these workers are facing diminished work flexibility and increased earning uncertainty. And, data show women are more likely than men to reduce working hours to help absorb the increased share of caregiving and other domestic responsibilities. This raises questions of online freelancing as a viable career path or sustainable source of work.
Education for the information profession is in a state of radical change and re-design. Academic ... more Education for the information profession is in a state of radical change and re-design. Academic units are being reorganized around new interdisciplinary paradigms, while new curriculums are being developed to address the needs of a growing and diverse information profession. Existing schools, which offer multiple information degrees and are based upon interdisciplinary models, such as Syracuse, Pittsburgh, Drexel and Rutgers universities have been or are now joined by others, such as the University of Michigan ...
PDIs are emerging as alternative sociotechnical infrastructures to enhance flexible work arrangme... more PDIs are emerging as alternative sociotechnical infrastructures to enhance flexible work arrangments.
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Papers by Steve Sawyer