Exploring the Educational Implications of Actor-Network Theory

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine what ANT is and to explore the educational implications of it. The characteristic of ANT is that it defines non-humans as ‘actors’ who constitute society on an equal basis with humans. A ‘black box’ refers to when actors build stable relationships and appear as if they are one object. A ‘network’ is a set of unfixed relationships between actors. ‘Translation’ refers to the process of forming a network of relationships. Translation consists of four steps: raising the issue, attracting attention, registering, and mobilizing.The educational implications of ANT are, first, to break away from the limitations of existing teaching and learning theories such as behaviorism, cognitivism, and constructivism, and to develop new teaching and learning theories necessary in the age of science and technology. Second, to move away from me-centeredness and emphasize community-centeredness. Third, ANT stresses the importance of ecological conversion education.