Research Of Learning Environment Design Based On Distributed Cognition

This research proposes a new scheme of learning environment design. Guided by distributed cognition, it aims at facilitating cognitive activities and improving learning effect through the integration of all the positive factors, such as modern learning theories, advanced information technology and supportive resources and tools.In chapter one, it briefs on the theoretical and practical backgrounds, outlines the current research status, and also defines the purpose and the methods of this research.In chapter two, the theory of distributed cognition, which stems from sociology, anthropology and psychology, is introduced to explain the phenomena of cognitive activities. According to the distributed cognition, cognitive activities are widely distributed in several main factors, such as the individual, the media, the culture, the society and the time. In some studies of this theory, the distributed cognitive system is often researched as the object, and the function of intelligent artifacts is always emphasized. Additionally, the theory of distributed cognition also absorbs some ideas of constructivism, situated learning theory, ecological psychology and activity learning theory, on the basis of the common attributes they share.In chapter three, this thesis elaborates on the analysis of distributed cognitive learning environment. The functions, constructive factors and systematic integrity of this environment are analyzed respectively and particularly. The most important function of learning environment is to facilitate learners'development, especially the ability development of high-rank thinking and problem solving. There are five main factors in a learning environment, including learning situation, leaning resources, supportive tools, learning community and learning activities. And all the factors interact with one another systematically to achieve the goal of integrity. When a learning environment is designed in terms of distributed cognition, it emphasizes most weightily on several aspects, such as the status and the function of intelligent artifacts, the interaction between the cognitive individual and other factors, the interaction between the components within each factor and the operation impetus of the whole learning environment system. In chapter four, the whole design of the learning environment based on cognitive distribution is discussed in detail. It is requested to construct an authentic problem context to encourage learners'cognitive activities. And the application of the multi-media materials and the expertise knowledge base should be defined particularly. In the aspect of supportive tools, it also elaborates on the procedures and techniques about how to design and choose a proper supportive tool. When it comes to the learning community, the method of participative design is adopted to construct the community organization and create individual roles. In the design of learning activities, the framework of activity learning theory is used to analyze integrate all cognitive factors and activities in the environment.In chapter five, an overall design of learning environment based on distributed cognition is elaborated in tabulation. And then, this thesis presents a trial, in which the design has been applied to some practical courses with Wallop. With the integrated evaluation and prompt modification, some valuable conclusions have been acquired.