Center for Activity Theory and Developmental Work Research

Engeström, Y. (2005). Developmental work research: Expanding activity theory in practice. Berlin: Lehmanns Media.

Developmental work research is an innovative approach to the study and reshaping of work and learning. It expands cultural-historical activity theory by bringing it to the domains of work, technology and organizations.

The world of work is in turmoil, increasingly dominated by ‘runaway objects’ generated by globalization and greed. Developmental work research rediscovers and expands use values in runaway objects. In workplace interventions it engages practitioners in expansive re-forging of the objects of their work.

In 18 chapters, this book lays out the theoretical and methodological foundations of developmental work research. The practical potential of the approach is demonstrated in a number of case studies, ranging from courts of law and factories to schools and health care clinics.

Yrjö Engeström is Professor of Communication at University of California, San Diego and Professor of Adult Education at University of Helsinki. He is Director of the Center for Activity Theory and Developmental Work Research in Helsinki.