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Glossary

Constructivism

 

A paradigm which highlights the subjectivity of reality and knowledge. Within this subjective reality, where knowledge is socially constructed, constructivism highlights the role of the individual in making sense of their experiences, and in knowledge formation. Constructivist research often makes claims as to what people may be thinking or feeling based on their speech. This type of research gives primacy to the perspectives of individuals.

Glossary

Summary (bullet points)

  • Paradigm with a subjectivist ontology and epistemology
  • Focuses on how individuals make sense of their experiences
  • Infers individuals’ cognitive schemas and processes from collected data

Classification (s)

Research term

Classification (s)

Metatheory

Foundational paper (s)

Bhaskar, R. (1975). A realist theory of science. York: Books.