Activity theory as an activist and interventionist theory

Abstract

This article presents arguments used in current discussions on potential shortcomings of contemporary works within activity theory concerning subjectivity and the use of conceptual models such as the triangular representation of the activity system. It documents the history of activity theory as an activist and interventionist theory. It suggests that advances in activity theory depend on the ability of those within this framework to establish fruitful connections between the classic heritage and challenging possibilities of societal change. The main arguments of the critiques are examined in this historical perspective. Combined with design and implementation of material transformations, both the models and the voices of the subjects act as mediators and are embedded in collective change efforts. The article indicates a possible direction to reorient the current discussions toward interventionist methods developed within the framework of activity theory, namely the Change Laboratory, the Clinic of Activity, and the Fifth Dimension.

Analisando a pesquisa-ação à luz dos princípios intervencionistas: um olhar comparativo

“…O princípio de estimulação dupla, desenvolvido por Vygotsky, refere-se ao mecanismo com o qual os seres humanos podem romper intencionalmente uma situação de conflito e mudar suas circunstâncias ou resolver problemas difíceis (SANNINO, 2011). De acordo com a estimulação dupla, um sujeito, quando diante de uma situação problemática, recorre aos meios externos de apoio, a fim de ser capaz de agir (ENGESTRÖM; SANNINO, 2012b).…”

“…O objetivo dessas pesquisas é, por meio das ações coletivas, contemplar tanto os sujeitos relacionados à organização quanto os pesquisadores vinculados à pesquisa, de forma que o conhecimento necessário a ser produzido e a ação necessária a ser tomada, sejam considerados em conjunto GODOI, 2013). Dentro da perspectiva intervencionista, o conhecimento teórico gerado resulta de esforços dialógicos e práticos de mudança, em que as vozes dos sujeitos atuam como mediadores (SANNINO, 2011).…”

The interface of innovation and activity theory

“…Engeström's triangle ( Figure 5) refers to a basic structure model of human activity (Sannino, 2011). Engeström (1987) proposed a model of an activity system emphasising the social aspect of mediation, considering that an activity is performed by a human agent (subject) who is motivated to solve a problem or objective (object), and mediated by tools (artefacts) in collaboration with others (community).…”

“…Thus, certain forms of activity are described as forms of co construction of a potentially shared object (Sannino, 2011).…”

“…Cultural-historical activity theory needs to develop conceptual tools to understand the multiple perspectives and activity systems of interaction networks, which refer to Engeström's contribution, through the expansion of the analysis unit, intended for the interaction of multiple activity systems (Sannino, 2011).…”