Cited by 265Innovative Education and Learning PracticesScience Education and PedagogyInnovative Teaching and Learning Methods

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Using Activity Theory to Understand the Systemic Tensions Characterizing a Technology-Rich Introductory Astronomy Course

Abstract

In this report of our research on a computer-based three-dimensional (3-D) modeling course for learning astronomy, we use the central tenets of activity theory to analyze participation by undergraduate students and instructors, illuminating the instances of activity that characterized course dynamics. Specifically, we focus on the relations of participant (student) and object (3-D models and astronomy understandings) and how, in our course, object transformations leading to scientific understandings are mediated by tools (both technological and human), the overall classroom microculture (emergent norms), division of labor (group dynamics and student-instructor roles), and rules (informal, formal, and technical). Through analysis of the data, we interpreted and then focused on two systemic tensions as illuminative of classroom activity. With respect to the first systemic tension, we examined the interplay between learning astronomy and building 3-D models. Results suggested that instead of detracting from the emergence of an activity system that supported learning astronomy, model-building actions frequently coevolved with (were the same as) astronomy-learning actions. With respect to the second tension, we examined the interplay between prespecified, teacher-directed instruction versus emergent, student-directed learning. Our results indicated that it was rarely teacher-imposed nor student-initiated constraints that directed learning; rather, rules, norms, and divisions of la…

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Metadata

Authors
Barab, S. A., Barnett, M., Yamagata-Lynch, L., Squire, K., & Keating, T.
Affiliations
  • Indiana University Bloomington (US)
  • Boston College (US)
  • University of Utah (US)
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (US)
  • The Tech Interactive (US)
Venue
Mind, Culture, and Activity
Published
2002-05
Volume
9
Issue
2
Pages
76-107
ISSN
  • 1074-9039 (ISSN-L)
  • 1532-7884
OpenAlex
W2028082438
Cited by
265
References
0
Citations by year
2026: 2 · 2025: 4 · 2024: 5 · 2023: 10 · 2022: 6 · 2021: 14 · 2020: 10 · 2019: 10 · 2018: 17 · 2017: 21 · 2016: 12 · 2015: 12 · 2014: 15 · 2013: 17 · 2012: 18
FWCI
23.41
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
closed
Locations
Mind Culture and Activity (publishedVersion)
Funders
American Educational Research Association
Topics
  • Social Sciences › Education › Innovative Education and Learning Practices
  • Social Sciences › Education › Science Education and Pedagogy
  • Social Sciences › Psychology › Developmental and Educational Psychology › Innovative Teaching and Learning Methods
Keywords
activity theory, 3D modeling, computer-assisted instruction, systemic tension, division of labor, student-led learning, teacher-centered instruction

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