An abstract model for understanding the "Self, Other, Present, Future" complex

The Anticipatory Activity System (AAS) framework is inspired by Activity Theory and Anticipatory System theory. It aims to offer an abstract model for understanding "Self, Other, Present, Future".

While the traditional Activity Theory focuses on "Exploitative Activity", the AAS framework is more about "Exploratory Activity".

The core of the AAS framework is the Transactional Anticipatory System which considers the “Self, Other, Present, Future” situation. See the diagram below:

You can find more details in The iART Framework and The “Relevance” Thematic Space.

I also worked on expanding the basic model of AAS. The diagram below highlights five movements of the AAS framework: Unfolding, Discovering, Producing, Modeling, and Storytelling.

In order to test the AAS framework, I applied it to Life Transitions (LT) and developed the AAS4LT framework. It considers “Life Discovery Project” as Second-order Activity and “Life Developmental Project” as a First-order Activity.

Based on the AAS4LT framework, I developed the AAS4LT 1:1 life coaching program, an eight-step service.

You can find more details in Life Discovery: The AAS Framework.

A Possible Book

Today I finished a 36-page introduction to the AAS framework with the following picture. You can consider them as a prototype of a possible book.

I wrote a rough TOC for the possible book in the last section of the introduction.

Part One: Speculation

Part One focuses on theoretical development. I will introduce several theoretical resources behind the AAS framework and discuss the developmental process of core concepts of AAS.

  • Activity Theory
  • Anticipatory Theory
  • Relevance Theory
  • Self-determination Theory
  • Networks of Enterprise
  • Curativity Theory
  • An Intermediate Framework

Part Two: Movements

Part Two introduces the basic model of the AAS framework and the significant movements.

  • Discovering
  • Producing
  • Unfolding
  • Modeling
  • Storytelling
  • Evaluating

Part Three: Modules

Part Three introduces several sub-frameworks and models. They can be used as modules for designing different programs.

  • The iART framework
  • The "Anticipatory - Performance" Complexity
  • A Typology of Relevance
  • The Defining Zone
  • Developmental Project Model
  • Life Discovery Model
  • The Opportunity Formula
  • The Achievement Chain

Part Four: Experiments

Part Four shares some stories behind the historical development of the AAS framework.

  • Shaper & Supporter Lab
  • The AAS Board and the AAS4LT program
  • The Knowledge Engagement Program
  • The Slow Cognition Project
  • Life Strategy Activity