Open AccessThe Double Path of Expansive Learning in Complex Socio-Technical Change Processes
Author(s) -
Monika Hackel,
Michael Klebl
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
outlines/critical social studies
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1904-0210
pISSN - 1399-5510
DOI - 10.7146/ocps.v15i1.15829
Subject(s) - expansive , multidisciplinary approach , knowledge management , expansive clay , resource (disambiguation) , work (physics) , field (mathematics) , dissemination , action (physics) , activity theory , interpretation (philosophy) , action learning , sociology , engineering , engineering ethics , public relations , computer science , cooperative learning , political science , pedagogy , teaching method , social science , materials science , compressive strength , mathematics , computer network , environmental science , composite material , telecommunications , quantum mechanics , soil science , soil water , programming language , mechanical engineering , physics , pure mathematics
The purpose of this article is to describe how expansive learning in organisations can become a resource for learning in a wider community of practice (CoP). The “developmental work research” approach (DWR) based on cultural historical activity theory (CHAT) is beneficial for analysing and interpreting the requirements in a field of action. Engeström’s specific form of “action research” focuses on expansive learning in activity systems. However, complex socio-technical change processes cannot be initiated and managed by the local community of practise alone. In order to establish the use of new tools, new methodologies or organisational solutions in a field of work, a double path of expansive learning is needed: Findings from the participative analysis and interpretation of contradictions in the local activity system have to be transferred to wider communities of practice. This paper illustrates a double path of expansive learning by presenting the experiences of research and development in machine and plant engineering companies in Germany. In the AQUIMO project, a project team has developed an adaptable software tool for multidisciplinary mechatronical engineering and created a related qualification program. The support from external social researchers has helped to initiate, disseminate and establish new ways to organise the division of labour in teams of engineers.