文章基本信息

标题：Activity Theory as a lens to understand how Facebook develops knowledge application skills
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作者：Emily Bagarukayo ; Proscovia Namubiru Ssentamu ; Tabisa Mayisela 等
期刊名称：International Journal of Education and Development using Information and Communication Technology
电子版ISSN：1814-0556
出版年度：2016
卷号：12
期号：3
页码：128-140
出版社：University of the West Indies
摘要：Uganda’s higher education system has generally been criticized for concentrating on theory leadingto a mismatch between training received and practical skills required by employers. Studies havedocumented the inability of graduates from some programmes at Makerere University in applyingknowledge in the work environment. This could partly be attributed the use of traditional teachingmethods, which do not adequately develop higher order cognitive skills and knowledge applicationin real life situations. Therefore, the study explored how technological approaches can be adoptedto produce better graduates with ability to apply knowledge in real life situations. The study aimedto explore 1) how Facebook affords students to transfer knowledge acquired in the lecture room tothe workroom and 2) the usefulness of Activity Theory (AT) as a lens to analyze how studentsinteract with Facebook to develop knowledge application skills. Current methods of knowledgeapplication were reviewed to identify gaps, strengths and effectiveness of Facebook learningactivities guided by AT which is a useful social learning theory for studying transfer and knowledgeapplication in new contexts among activity systems. Second year Bachelor of InformationTechnology students interacted with Facebook as a mediating tool to post videos installing anoperating system on the page and interact with peers and their lecturer. Analysis of students’interaction with Facebook activities, practices and implications, and the potential of AT for research,development and dissemination is presented. Findings show the usefulness of AT in clarifying howinteractions in Facebook and contradictions occur. Finally, limitations of using AT in understandinghow Facebook develops knowledge application skills and recommendations for future research arehighlighted