Constructivism versus Interpretivism

This short video explains the basic differences between constructivism and interpretivism as research paradigms.

Constructivists embrace the value-laden nature of research, emphasising reflexivity and ethical responsibility, and valuing the co-construction of knowledge with participants. This paradigm acknowledges the subjective and interpretive nature of knowledge creation, viewing it as a strength that enriches understanding and contributes to the depth and authenticity of research findings. Constructivist researchers are also often concerned with the social implications of their research, seeking not only to understand the world but also to contribute positively towards social change.

While interpretivism recognises the influence of researcher and participant values, it leans more towards understanding and interpreting the values and meanings inherent within the study context. Consequently, they believe that the researcher’s role is to immerse themselves in the participants’ experiences to gain a deep, empathetic understanding of their perspectives.

Copyright Monash University

[emmanuelsasuboakye]

Thank you for the wonderful clarification between the two paradigms.

[CynthiaVleugels]

This just clarified so much for me! Thank you!

[TanyaSanyal]

Thanks so much for this closer explanation! I was getting in a twist between the two for my dissertation

[rizki]

Thank you so much for the very clear and concise explanation :)

[HERUI]

Really thank you, you are so cool, address an issue that confused me so many days

[LindiShipalana]

Which one do you think is more suitable for decolonising research?

[stuggoto]

I don't understand why they would be mutually exclusive 🤔Because surely, people interpret the world differently BECAUSE they have constructed their knowledge differently? Maybe I am just misunderstanding.

[WendoMOlema]

great, I have gained a lot I used to mix them up