The C-Model of Interaction between humans and Digital Media in learning environments

In this article we introduce the C-Model of Interaction between humans and Digital Media¹ we empirically researched and analyzed in learning scenarios (workshops). In our trienal research project called “Subject Formation and Digital Culture” (SKUDI) we arranged and designed a series of constructivist and constructionist workshops. In these workshops dealing with robots, smart textiles, fabrication devices (in so called FabLabs) and a digital installation we could reveal the new forms of interaction. After giving an introduction to the research project SKUDI we describe these interactive collaborative learning environments as pedagogical settings. Furthermore, we substantiate four forms of interaction between young adults and digital artifacts: Co-existent Interaction, Co-operative Interaction, Controlling Interaction and Creative Interaction. This C-model of Interaction is based on qualitative analysis as known from the social sciences. We exemplify our methods and comment their implementation in the computer sciences. Finally, we illustrate the pedagogical meaning of the forms of interaction.