More than a feeling : technology-infused learning environments to support the development of empathy

Abstract

This dissertation explores how technology-infused learning environments can be designed to support the development of empathy for others, and contains contributions across the theoretical, design, and empirical dimensions. From a theoretical perspective, Empathy Development Environments have been defined as technology-infused learning environments to support the cultivation of empathy. I have also developed a framework called Trajectories of Awareness that can be used as a guide for structuring activities to cultivate empathy through the simultaneous exploration of emotion and identity within a learning environment. This exploration takes place by first focusing on self and eventually moving into an understanding of others. From the design aspect, a model Empathy Development Environment called Beyond the Looking has been created in order to operationalize the conceptual foundations. Further, a platform called Affect as Index has been envisioned and implemented for supporting conversations around emotion that were previously intangible. Empirically, three iterations of a design-based research study have been carried out as a means to flesh out a set of guidelines for the implementation of Empathy Development Environments. For each of the three iterations, challenges to the implementation were utilized to refine the design of the model environment to progress to the next iteration. These three iterations are analyzed based on a framework proposed for the design and analysis of Empathy Development Environments. Analysis revealed that the environment supported participants in establishing a community that allowed them to practice the skills of empathy.