Using technology in Higher Education: an Activity Theory perspective

Abstract

This paper describes the application of Activity Theory to considerations of enhancing learning through the use of technology in Higher Education. The theory is reviewed and its extended version which uses the idea of an activity system to help analyse the use of technology in context described. Two case studies of teaching and learning in Higher Education are described: one exploring the use of ICT in a postgraduate study of science communication and the other a history course using the web to provide a range of resources and communication facilities for students. These two case studies represent different uses of technology in different disciplines and lead to a consideration of how the use of Activity Theory informs understanding of these learning experiences.

Challenges in Implementing Patient‐centred Information Systems in Tanzania: An Activity Theory Perspective

“…Change of activity systems occurs through contradictions which manifest themselves as problems, disturbances or inconsistencies between the components of an activity system (Engestrom, 2001;Issroff and Scanlon, 2002). Contradictions point to misfits occurring within or between elements of a single activity system (Kuutti, 1996) The Electronic Journal of Information Systems in Developing Countries www.ejisdc.org objects can also cause contradictions (Kuutti, 1996) since real life situations involve connected web of activities that can be distinguished according to their objects.…”

Exploring Information and Communication Theory in Graphic Design Education with Activity Theory

“…Within such scope, educators' interactions will be possible with the model within the virtual design studio. According to Issroff and Scanlon [40], 'activities are not isolated units, but nodes in crossing hierarchies and networks which are influenced by other activities'.…”

CALLers and learning technologists: Where do they meet, and what do they have in common?

“…One recent example is that of activity theory (AT) (Issroff & Scanlon, 2002). AT frames human activity in units for analysis according to individuals, their objectives, the tools they use, and the mediating influences of community, rules and division of labour.…”