Blog #9 - Constructivism

Constructivism

Beginning in the late 1890s (particularly 1990s – 2010s) theorists shift attention to postmodern theories. Young & Collin - consensus formed around the use of two terms, constructivism and social constructionism. 

Constructivism – (internal cognitions)-  a type of learning theory that describes how individuals construct their own ideas about themselves, others, and the worlds as they try to make sense out of their real-life experiences.

Social constructionism – (external processes) - contrast to constructivism.  The emphasis is on how social or external processes shape the career development of individuals rather than on how individuals shape their career development.

It is believed that individuals do not separate the two – they construct and live their lives using both internal (self) and external (social) processes.

Career counseling that uses both approaches means using the narrative approach with the career counseling process to help clients tell their story in their own language.  It is particularly useful to gather information through qualitative procedures – Life Career Assessment, career genograms, card slots.

Implications of the Postmodern Theories of Constructivism and Social Constructionism for the Practice of Career Counseling

1.       Emphasize multicultural perspectives and focus on the belief that there is no fixed truth. Individuals construct their own truth/reality.

2.       Qualitative assessments provide frames and stimuli that assist clients in telling their stories.

3.       Constructivism has directed career practitioners towards the holistic experience.

4.       Narrative therapists help clients see that their worlds are constructed through language and cultural practice and that clients can subsequently deconstruct and reconstruct their assumptions and perceptions.

5.       Client stores are face valid, have intrinsic value. Narrative therapists assume that client stores reflect some meaningful aspect of that person.

Click here for a definition of Constructivism (video)

This video is 40 minutes long, but a great watch!   Life Design - by Mark Savickas