Everyday Matters: Reception and Use as Productive Design of Health-Related Texts

Abstract

This article uses research in cultural–historic activity theory, exploring patients' use of technical health care texts to produce knowledge and design their choices related to their bodies and health. Drawing on a case study of Meagan, who dealt with colitis and complications due to pregnancy, the author argues that we should consider reception and use as multisemiotic acts of repurposing, inscription, and reproduction alongside the research of the production of texts by professionals.

Keywords:

• cultural–historic activity theory
• feminist research methods
• health and medical communication
• usability studies

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Hannah Bellwoar

Hannah Bellwoar is an assistant professor of English at Juniata College, where she teaches professional and multimedia writing. Her research explores use of health-related texts in people's everyday lives, and her work has appeared in Kairos, Rhetoric Review, and National Women's Studies Association Journal.