Analysis of Participation in Educational Partnerships in Light of Activity Theory

• In Event: Building Partnerships for New Opportunities

Abstract

This study focuses on participation in university – school – community organization (US_CO) partnerships that aim at successful activity of the student learner as well as of the public school. Activity theory was applied to analyze participation that requires agency for boundary crossing of one’s activity system. Dilemmas and double-binds were identified, and interpreted as reflective of tensions and contradictions that were solved, or remained unresolved, within each and across partnerships. Results point to rise and reduction of tensions within and among activity systems, and to how to strengthen collaboration in partnership-based innovation.

Authors

• Sylvie Barma, Laval University

• Anne P. Lessard, University of Sherbrooke

• Therese Laferriere, Laval University

• Alain Breuleux, McGill University