The ethnography of distributed collaborative learning

In this paper we focus on studying distributed collaborative learning with the techniques, methods, and analytical perspective of ethnography. Distributed collaborative learning is commonly placed in hybrid settings, where the participants engage in computer-mediated communication as part of some sort of institutionalised education. There are thus some inherent issues, both new and old, that need to be taken into consideration when doing ethnography in distributed learning environments. Addressing these issues, we emphasise the role of technology and information infrastructure and how this might impact the learning situation, but also how it can be used as a resource in the ethnographic research. In addition, we discuss how to observe, participate and immerse oneself in these technologically dense environments. The ideas and methodological issues are illustrated by presenting empirical examples from and experiences made in one of our research projects. In this way we forefront ethnography as a fruitful approach for studying and describing the complexity and contingencies of distributed learning in an informed and structured way.