The Distribution of Distributed Cognition: Multiple Interpretations and Uses

We argue that greater precision is needed in the use of the term distributed cognition if this perspective is to significantly impact educational research. We describe a continuum of interpretations of distributed cognition ranging from a conceptualization of cognition as an individual phenomenon that is influenced by factors external to the individual, to a conceptualization of cognition as a social phenomenon that cannot be reduced to individual psychological constructs. We discuss the issues raised by the papers in the current volume, and locate the perspectives taken in these papers along the distributed cognition continuum. The relationship between distributed cognition and situated cognition is then examined, as these terms are often used interchangeably. Finally, we discuss key issues for further research in distributed cognition.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

1. Division of Psychological and Quantitative Foundations, University of Iowa, Iowa City Joyce L. Moore & Thomas R. Rocklin
2. College of Education, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242 Joyce L. Moore

1. Joyce L. Moore