ABSTRACT

The article outlines four generations of theorizing and research on work and learning within the Finnish school of activity theory. The main focus of the paper is on the evolution of the unit of analysis through the four generations, from mediated action to a collective activity system, to multiple-interconnected activity systems, and most recently to heterogenous work coalitions aimed at resolving wicked societal problems. We examine how learning and agency are conceptualized in each generation, and what kinds of interventions are conducted in the projects presented as examples of the four generations. We conclude that the four generations of activity-theoretical studies of work and learning continue to co-exist. To meet the challenges of work in today’s world, activity theory must seriously engage in the development of its fourth generation, building on ideas and instruments developed by the preceding generations.

摘要

本文概述了芬兰活动理论流派中关于工作与学习的四代理论和研究。本文的主要重点是分析单元在四代中的演变，从中介行动到集体活动系统，再到多个相互关联的活动系统，最近又发展到旨在解决邪恶的社会问题的异构工作联盟。我们研究了如何在每一代中对学习和代理进行概念化，以及在以四代为例的项目中进行了哪些干预。我们得出的结论是，关于工作和学习的活动理论研究的四代继续存在。为了应对当今世界的工作挑战，活动理论必须认真参与第四代人的发展，