Using Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) to frame 'SuperclubsPLUS', an online social network for children

Abstract

This paper uses a Cultural Historical Activity Theory framework to describe a social-networking online community project, "SuperclubsPLUS", for children aged 6-12. The use of the CHAT frame enables a detailed description of connections within the project as participants work together to achieve individual and common goals. Application of this structure to the SuperclubsPLUS environment supports the concept that the community is continually changing, shaped by the interactions of the participants. It is anticipated that this snapshot of the project will provide a tangible base in order to further develop and map ongoing patterns of interaction for research. © 2009 IFIP International Federation for Information Processing.