| dc.description.abstract | To go for a hike in the nearby environment is a popular activity within the Norwegian population. Voluntary organizations have for a long period of time taken initiative to place tour books on strategical places in the nearby environment for people to sign their names, so they can be counted for number of hikes, and maybe also compete for a prize. This as an initiative to increase hiking activity for the general population. Recently, there has been a change towards use of mobile phones and apps to register hiking activities. The aim of this study is to explore how new technologies, here exemplified by the app Georeg, influence the hiking experience. The study draws from theories of motivation, such as the self-determination theory (SDT) and with special attention to the term autonomy. A strategic sample of 22 active hikers (81% females, mean age 53) were recruited from the North-western part of Norway. Through semi-structured individual interviews, informants were asked about their hiking habits, their experiences, and their use of Georeg. The analysis identified four overarching themes: 1) from tour book to app, 2) how the app form and regulate, 3) the app creates contradictory feelings, and 4) when technology takes control. The findings illustrate both positive and negative perspectives of using the app, and a clear ambivalence from the informants appears in the material. The article discusses how parts of the app function as “nudging” for activity, but also how dualistic passion threaten participant’s autonomy and how nature can take a backseat to the total experience. We question what task is for the technology to solve, and if the app solely contributes to promote happiness, wellness and increased public health. | |
