The Entangled Learner: Critical Agency for the Postdigital Era

The Postdigital Learner Agency (PLĀ) framework redefines learner agency to navigate the complexities of education in the postdigital era-where hybrid learning environments and algorithmically mediated systems shape educational experiences. Grounded in Social Cognitive Theory, Sociocultural Perspectives, and Postdigital Philosophy, PLĀ extends traditional notions of agency by incorporating relational, spatial, collective, and shared dimensions. This paper explores four key questions: How must agency be redefined for hybrid realities? What theoretical foundations support PLĀ? How does it foster equity and resilience? How do sociotechnical systems influence agency? The paper then examines PLĀ's theoretical foundations and its application across K-12, higher education, and lifelong learning contexts. It demonstrates how PLĀ fosters autonomy, adaptability, and algorithmic resilience, ensuring learners are prepared to engage with complex educational and professional landscapes. By addressing systemic inequities and advocating for inclusive policies, PLĀ offers a transformative vision of education-empowering learners to act with confidence, ethical awareness, and agency in postdigital environments.