Activity System Transformation with ICT: the Case of Argument Diagramming in Logic

Abstract

The goal of this article is to understand the development and transformation of an argument diagramming activity system that uses specific software in "Informal Logic" university classes (School of Philosophy and Humanities, National University of Cordoba, Argentina). From a qualitative perspective, a study case is conducted considering two methodological instances: classes observations and indepth interviews with students. Specifically, the research describes the activity system established to diagramming arguments with "Araucaria" software and, from there, shows the systemic perturbations that occur in it. Then, it introduces a new technologically possible diagrammatic system that attempts to overcome the tensions warned and to stimulate new reasoning ways. The main finding indicates that the modification of the argument diagramming system enabled by the inclusion of digital technologies (Network Analysis Software) transforms students' learning practices. In particular, their metacognitive activity is enriched by the fact that the new diagrams show the social dimension of argumentation in a renewed and plural way. Thus, the perturbations analyzed at the beginning can be solved when both the object and the motivation of the diagrammatic activity are transformed. Consequently, the institution of a different and innovative activity system can be enabled: the reticular diagramming.