Ambient Representation Tools for Divergent Collaboration: Design-Based Research Using Actor Network Analysis

• In Event: Augmented and Ambient Technologies to Support Embodied and Collaborative Learning

Abstract

We use Actor Network analysis to understand how a project-based computing class’s help-seeking and collaborative habits evolved upon introducing a tool designed to foster collaboration. This provides a lens on how design features of tools affect collaborative behaviours. Interactions between students, teachers, and the tool evolve as they transition from novel interventions to established actors in the space. We also show how such analyses can support design-based research, by providing a temporal lens into the relationship between actors and tools within the environment.
We discuss challenges in attempting to transform collaborative practices into persistent and functioning parts of a classroom. These include the lack of existing classroom practices, and requisite interest for inspiring students to help each other.

Authors

• Vishesh Kumar, Northwestern University

• Mike Tissenbaum, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign