Reconsidering the Theory of Emergent Division of Labor for Designing Collaborative Learning Environment

Abstract

This paper discusses the design principles for collaborative learning environments based on the Emergent Division of Labor (EDL) theory. In recent research in the learning sciences, two theories of regulation of learning have emerged; Shared Epistemic Agency (SEA) and Socially Shared Regulation of Learning (SSRL), which aim to theorize group-level of epistemic agency and metacognitive regulation of collaborative learning. We will introduce the theories of SEA and SSRL, research in CSCL with systems related to the two theories, and following the current trend in research, will discuss and elaborate on the EDL theory and the design principles for the development of the learning environments aimed at fostering the students’ full participation in collaborative learning. We will then propose three additional design principles for the collaborative learning environment based on the EDL theory.