Distributed Cognition

A Theory on Learning

Developed by
Edwin Hutchins in the
mid 1980s.
* Recognizes the social
aspects of cognition
* Incorporates insights from
sociology, cognitive science,
and the phsychology of
Vygotsky

The belief that artifacts, tools, individuals and objects

play a role in the distribution of knowledge. As they
interact cognition also changes.

Shared Knowledge building internal

cognitive processes

Distributed Cognition attempts to explain the influence of

the social and material world on individual cognitive
development. Likewise, how individual influences affect
the development of the world around them.

Distance learning
is applied
distributed
cognition.
* Education provided in a
situation where students
are not able to be
physically present

* Students can interact

electronically either in
synchronous or
asynchronous time to
discuss, share, and
collaborate in a way that
fits their individual
needs.

Application through Distributed Learning

Distributed Cognition apparent when there is a combination

of campus based education and distance learning.

Recognition that we can.

Distributed Learning the future of