Networked Computers' Incorporated Role in Collaborative Learning

Networked computers are increasingly being used in collaborative learning. To understand what roles networked computers have in collaborative learning over distances, systems developers need conceptual frameworks that address the triadic complexity of knowledge construction, social interaction and technical issues. Some theoretical accounts of this relationship exits, but in terms of usefulness for systems design and how the role of networked is regarded, they have shortcomings. Based on activity theory, this paper presents a conceptual framework for understanding computer applications as incorporated into collaborative learning. This is operationalised by focusing on the applications as mediators for reflection and thought as well as for the social exchange processes and the learners ’ role-taking process