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Edited by Dr. Lynne Schrum, George Mason University
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| formerly Journal of Research on Computing in Education |
Volume 40 Number 3 Spring 2008
Collaborative Virtual Environments as Means to Increase the Level of Intersubjectivity in a Distributed cognition System
M. Beatrice Ligorio
University of Bari, Italy
Donatella Cesareni
University of Rome, Italy
Neil Schwartz
California State University, Chico, USA
Abstract
Virtual environments are able to extend the space of interaction beyond the classroom. In order to analyze how distributed cognition functions in such an extended space, we suggest focusing on the architecture of intersubjectivity. The Euroland project—a virtual land created and populated by seven classrooms supported by a team of researchers—was analyzed with the aim of tracking down the process and the structure of intersubjectivity. Participants were located in different cities in two countries—Italy and the Netherlands. At the end of the project, the initial empty virtual world was filled with virtual artifacts borne from the intersubjective process. A group of ten 13-year-old students was observed throughout the project. Seven videotapes were collected in the classroom. By analyzing the videotapes, a set of episodes revealing intersubjectivity was captured and discussed. Intersubjectivity first concerned only participants and tools located in the classroom. Later, partners at a distance and the various communication tools available entered the architecture of intersubjectivity. Finally, intersubjectivity revealed not only information, but the reciprocal perception of the roles and awareness of a joint project. From the episode analysis, recommendations for teachers’ use of virtual technology were drawn.
 Download the full article (PDF, 113 KB)
Contributors
M. Beatrice Ligorio is Associate Professor in Educational Psychology at the University of Bari, Italy, and she is an expert in educational technology. Her research interests are the virtual commuity, digital identity, and intersubjectivity. (bealigorio@hotmail.com).
Donatella Cesareni is a researcher in pedagogy at the University of Rome, Italy, and an expert in eductional technology. She developed educational multimedia and educational environments. (donatella.cesareni@uniroma1.it).
Neil Schwartz is professor of psychology at California State University, Chico. He is an expert on the design and development of Web-based instructional systems relative to graphics and navigation, metacognition, and problem solving. (nschwartz@csuchico.edu).
Copyright 2008, (International Society for Technology in Education). All rights reserved.
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