Online Case Discussions: Tensions in Activity Systems
- 3 August 2006
Abstract
In this paper we offer a view of case discussions in an online learning environment based on activity theory, which allows us to analyse the inherent contradictions in students' learning activities. We see activity theory as a first step towards structuring the complexity of students' experiences in today's higher education systems, so as to increase ICT's supportive role for higher-order learning activities. After identifying the tensions within particular activities we derive three means of supporting online case discussions: task scaffolds; collaboration scripts; and increasing students' awareness of technology-based alternativesKeywords
This publication has 5 references indexed in Scilit:
- The Social and Technological Dimensions of Scaffolding and Related Theoretical Concepts for Learning, Education, and Human ActivityJournal of the Learning Sciences, 2004
- Students’ experiences in problem‐based learning: three blind mice episode or educational innovation?Innovations in Education and Teaching International, 2004
- Relationships between student scientific epistemological beliefs and perceptions of constructivist learning environmentsEducational Research, 2000
- Activity theory as a framework for designing constructivist learning environmentsEducational Technology Research and Development, 1999
- On Two Metaphors for Learning and the Dangers of Choosing Just OneEducational Researcher, 1998