Dynamic Constructivism
A framework we call Dynamic Constructivism resides at the heart of an appreciative narrative concerning the future (Bergquist and Eggen, 2011). Most importantly, we are enhancing the expertise being offered by our colleague and ourselves when we engage in dynamic constructivism. We construct a dynamic, evolving reality in which expertise is being engaged from all sources and is being deployed on behalf of a better future. A dynamic constructivism moves well beyond the stability of traditional, broad-based societal and cultural perspectives regarding “legitimate” or “illegitimate” sources of expertise. The emergence of a dynamic constructivist perspective represents a revolutionary change in the true sense of the term. Expertise resides in the collective rather than in just the individual “expert” who receives our attention only because they possess power, prestige or position.
Language, narratives and self: Story and performance are hallmarks of dynamic constructivism. We live in a world of constructed realities that are constantly shifting and populated by language, semiotics and narratives. Language is no longer simply considered a handmaiden for reality, nor does it construct a permanent (or at least resistant) reality. Furthermore, language is not a secondary vehicle we employ when commenting on the reality that underlies and is the reference point for this language. Dynamic constructivists take this analysis one step further by proposing that language is itself the primary reality in our daily life experiences. Language, originally and primarily relationship-based, assumes its own reality, and ceases to be an abstract sign that substitutes for the “real” things.
While traditional notions about expertise are based on the assumption that there is a constant reality to which one can refer (through the use of language and other symbol/sign systems) and an assumption that there is a constant societal base for our acceptance of expertise, dynamic constructivism is based on the assumption that the mode and content of discourse and the relationship(s) that underlie this discourse are the closest thing we have to “reality” and are the invaluable source of collective expertise. We are constantly reconstructing our reality because this reality is based on the specific relationship through which we are engaged via our discourse. Expertise is constantly shifting because reality is itself changing.
Collaborative expertise and truth: As Ken and Mary Gergen (2004, p. 19) proclaimed, “truth is only found within community.” More specifically, they would suggest (Gergen and Gergen, 2004, p. 25) that truth is found in trusting relationships: “constructivism favors a replacement of the individual as the source of meaning with the relationship.” Even more to the point, truth is found in dialogue – and disagreement. There is an insistence that we respect and learn from other people: “one is invited into a posture of curiosity and respect for others.” Of greatest importance is the respect we show for the distinctive expertise which people from all backgrounds bring to the dynamic construction of a desirable future.
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