Chandler presents a framework that is based on the core dimension of 'the locus of control'. Within this dimension ("hypothetical spectrum") control ranges from the extreemes of residing mainly with the computer or the user.

The diagram below, which is taken from Chandler (1984, p8), sets out "a range of computer uses for young learners".

Figure 1: Categories along Chandler's Locos of Control dimension

Chandler notes that the categories that he identifies should not be taken as clear cut - and nor should the sequence in which they appear.

Chandler's framework suffers from two main problems:

• Vagueness - the definition of the categories is not sufficiently clear.
• Focus on software - despite its apparent focus on the ways in which software is used the categories that Chandler identifies along his dimension are defined in terms of types of software. This suggests that any one 'type of program' can only be used in one specific way. This is not the case.

The fact that Chandler himself identifies that his categories are not clear-cut and that the order in which they appear along his 'Locus of Control' dimension may vary highlights these two problems. This looseness of the framework significantly reduces its power as a tool for thinking about and/or describing actual computer use.

It would be interesting to hear your views on and/or experiences of using Chandler's Locus of Control dimension (or on my reporting of it) - why not email me (PeterT@meD8.info)?

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Last updated 4th December 2001