An Activity Theoretical Approach to Examining Virtual Professional Development and Informal Learning via Social Networks

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Author(s): Joseph M. Terantino (Kennesaw State University, USA)
Copyright: 2012
Pages: 15
Source title: Virtual Professional Development and Informal Learning via Social Networks
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Vanessa P. Dennen (Florida State University, USA)and Jennifer B. Myers (Florida State University, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-1815-2.ch004

Keywords: Information Science Reference / Media & Communications / Social Computing / Social Networking

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Abstract

This chapter discusses the adoption of activity theory (Engeström, 1987, 2001; Leont’ev, 1978, 1981) as a conceptual framework for analyzing learning processes related to professional development and informal learning via social network environments. The discussion includes an overview of professional development and informal learning via social networks, which highlights the need for a related analytical framework. Activity theory is then described and applied to an example of professional development. This operationalization of activity theory demonstrates the ability of the framework to enable viewing and analyzing learning via social networks such as Facebook communities, wiki and blog spaces, listservs, and discussion forums. The chapter ends with several key points related to implementing activity theory as a solution to investigating behaviors in social networks and potential directions for future research.

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An Activity Theoretical Approach to Examining Virtual Professional Development and Informal Learning via Social Networks

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