Week 1: Reading Response
The main themes that are discussed in this article are activity theory and its integration into activity systems. Activity theory is described as looking at a situation or object, and processing it in different ways. This can be done by “thinking outside the box” or “putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.” Furthermore, activity systems are groups of people that work together to accomplish one overall goal. These groups of people focus on a long term goal that will be accomplished over time, using tools to guide them along the way. This process is directed by specific instructions and division of labor in order to ensure the desired outcome. More explicitly, activity systems are ongoing, object-directed, historically conditioned, dialectically structured, tool-mediated, and involve human interactions.
The reason I chose this gif is because a soccer team illustrates an activity system. The teams use human interaction in order to achieve one goal. Tools are rules are used in such sport. An activity system is created here
As an Engineering major this article connects to my profession by creating a visual effect on how there is many different levels of engineering but how each one can trickle down into totally different professions. The article helps me understand the concept of engineering as a whole community as each major within the Engineering college use different tools and rules. Ultimately each major has their own purpose to fulfill. The impact of special language can be different from major to major. Even though most engineers are well versed in software programs, some students may wonder what a mechanical engineering program such as NX differs from an industrial engineering program.
The gif above demonstrates an activity system in my engineering profession.
Finally a question the article has me itching for is can an activity system survive without human interaction?