Mechanisms of Cognitive Change In Peer Interaction : Implications for the design of computer supported cooperative

In this paper it is argued that existing accounts of mechanisms of cognitive change in joint nroblem solvine: are inadequate for several reasons. In particular explanations based on sociocognitive conflict do not tell us how the resolution of inter individual conflicts leads to cognitive change. It is argued that a more effective approach is to analyse the dialogue processes involved. A model is presented which explains change in terms of the relation between dialogue focus and task focus moves. An experiment is reported which eX1Jlores this relationship.The implications for designing COlllputer supported cooperative learning environments are then reported.