Flow
The Historical Development of the Activity Analysis Center
by Oliver Ding
Activity Theory, or Cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT), is an interdisciplinary philosophical framework for studying both individual and social aspects of human behavior. Initially, it was a psychological theory focused on the development of individual psychological functions and the mind.
I began studying Activity Theory around 2015. In 2020, I worked on the Activity U project, resulting in two book drafts and the initial development of the Project Engagement approach. From 2021 to 2022, I created the Anticipatory Activity System (AAS) framework and applied it to explore life strategy. In 2023, I designed the Activity Analysis & Intervention (AAI) Program. By 2024, I revisited and refined the Project Engagement approach, developing its v3.1. In August 2024, I launched Applied Activity Theory, a tool for selecting activity-theoretical frameworks. Later, I renamed the tool to the Wheel of Activity Analysis in March 2025.
On December 4, 2024, I used “World of Activity” to name my activity-centered creations as a theoretical toolkit, marking the end of a creative journey of theoretical exploration. However, in June 2025, I developed the theme of "World of Activity" as an independent concept for further development, resulting in the "World of Activity" approach that connects several theoretical frameworks I am working on, some are based on my activity-centered creations.
The journey has led to many creations, including book drafts, knowledge frameworks, diagrams, digital boards, and more. During the journey, I set up an independent website called Activity Analysis in November 2021. Later, I officially launched the site as a knowledge center.
The diagram below represents my journey of engaging with Activity Theory from 2015 to 2022. More details can be found in Appropriating Activity Theory (Book, 2022).
In September 2024, I revisited the journey as part of a case study for the Strategic Moves project, this time utilizing the House of Project Engagement to conduct a diagramming exercise — Mapping Strategic Moves. New developments since December 2022 have also emerged, prompting further reflection.
More details can be found in Mapping Strategic Moves #2: Engaging with Activity Theory.
The newest updates about the Activity Analysis Center can be found in our blog.
- v1.0: 379 words - September 4, 2025