A literature review in search of an appropriate theoretical perspective to frame a study of designerly activity in secondary design and technology

This paper explores how literature in which socio-cultural theory is applied to learning (John-Steiner, 1985; John-Steiner, 2000; Vygotsky, 1978) can be used to frame a study of designerly activity in a secondary design and technology classroom. Having established the theoretical underpinnings of the study, the paper goes on to develop an appropriate research question, methodology and analytical framework, all of which are justified against the theoretical perspective. The paper concludes by explaining how the approach could be applied to studies in other areas of the curriculum.