Exploiting available technologies to align methodology and theory in the study of science classrooms internationally

This paper addresses the use of available advanced technology for data
generation and analysis in relation to research in science(and other)
classrooms. It is argued that available technologies enable a new level of
alignment between research methodology and theory. Examples are
provided of the types of complex data sets and associated analyses made
possible by the new technologies. This heightened methodological
capacity matches the contemporary diversity and sophistication of our
theories of learning and instruction. The interdependence of methodology
and theory is illustrated using the examples of distributed cognition,
variation theory and complexity theory. In particular, examples are
provided of multiple layers of complementary analyses made possible by
advances in video analysis software. This paper addresses the extent to
which available technologies support methodological approaches capable
of accommodating and interrogating contemporary theories of learning
and instruction in ways not previously possible.