The polarity is addressed by the expert recognition that learning always involves structures and concepts that already exist (assimilation) as they bring in and incorporate new information that, in turn, brings about change in the existing structures and concepts (accommodation). An expert in learning (especially adult learning) can prove to be invaluable in bringing about this joint assimilation/accommodation process.
Complexity: entails the multiplex of forces, the apparently contradictory information flow, the sensitive interdependence of everything we touch, leading to the sense of confusion in which it’s hard to make smart decisions, steeped as we are in the moving dance of reality. A Left Column perspective on Complexity would center on being Clear-minded in the midst of confusion. The central concern is sorting out what is most relevant and most easily confirmed while dancing with reality. The opposing Right Column perspective on Complexity would center on being Open-minded in the midst of confusion. From this perspective, we would be primarily concerned with recognizing and holding on to the multiple realities that reside in the dance with reality.
Expertise can be appropriately and effectively used in addressing this polarity by encouraging the slow, reflective thinking that is described and advocated by the behavioral economists – particularly Daniel Kahneman (2011). Slow thinking incorporates both clarity of thought (identifying and setting aside biases and sloppy heuristics) and open-mindedness (consideration of alternative perspectives, practices and options). In the midst of pervasive anxiety associated with complex conditions (and the other VUCA-Plus conditions), it is critical that thinking and decision-making slow down.
The polarity between clear and open mindedness can be effectively managed with the expert use of tools that are provided by Kahneman—as well as those action learning tools offered by Chris Argyris and Don Schon.
Ambiguity: refers to the ‘haziness’ in which cause-and-effect are hard to attribute, relativity seems to trump established rules, weighing heavily on our ability to hold contradictory data and still function and make choices. An accompanying Left Column perspective on Ambiguity would focus on Engaging the Haziness. The primary concern is with establishing a viable “truth” and “reality” upon which one can base and guide their actions. The Right Column perspective stands in opposition. This perspective would focus on Tolerating the haziness. The primary concern would center on being patient and willing to remain in a state of “limbo” until such time as the haze clears and actions can be taken.
Appropriate expertise can be applied in addressing the ambiguity polarity by introducing multiple templates for assessing the nature of any challenging issue. One of these templates concerns the identification and analysis of both the immediate issue (the figure) and the context within which this issue is situated (the ground). A second template concerns the special distance from which a specific issue is being addressed. It should be examined close up (as an intimate narrative) (proximal perspective) and at a distance (as a broad landscape) (distal perspective). The third template involves temporal distance. The issue should be examined as it is currently being experienced (the present time) and as it will probably be (or could be) present at some point ahead of us (the future time).
