Abstract

Swedish working life research is frequently associated with new ways of producing knowledge – sometimes referred to as Mode 2. The idea is that a closer and more action-oriented co-operation with e.g. company- or union leaders will lead to both socially robust and useful knowledge. In this article we elaborate on some co-operation between researchers and representatives from working life taking place at the University College of Borås in Sweden, around issues of a sustainable working life. Through theoretical reflections, systematic notes from meetings, an earlier qualitiative study on a centre for work science (CAV) and on an affiliated network AiS, we analyse how confidence in such joint knowledge production - consisting of different interests oriented towards academic publications or production - can be mobilised. We will point to specific and at the same time universal obstacles that constrain mutual exchange of reflections and knowledge as well as possibilities to combine an exclusive and less open network with an inclusive and more formal centre for knowledge sharing. This is done by making use of two different organisational concepts (bridging practices and connecting practices) that allow us to outline different sorts of confidence and engagement in joint knowledge production, among researchers and representatives that mainly comes from various companies. We have been striving for intersubjective interpretations by negotiating our interpretations with representatives from working life, by reflecting upon our own positions and by taking notice of different contexts and perspectives.