Classic research methods are ineffective in capturing the dynamic relationships among users, technology, and outcomes for technology integration research. Cognitive research attempts to eliminate environmental variability and test for recall and transferability of knowledge representations. Such approaches lead to arguably ineffective measures of learning. Activity theory provides a holistic framework to investigate relationships among the elements present in a technology integration activity. These research approaches are compared. A CHAT framework is suggested as an appropriate structure for analyzing technology integration efforts. This approach focuses on the dynamic relationships among individuals, goals, tools, community members, and mediating factors that are the elements of any human activity. An example of this framework in practice is presented. A research model generated from applying CHAT approach is proposed.