Constructivist underpinnings in Donald Schön’s theory of reflective practice: echoes of Nelson Goodman

Abstract

Donald Schön’s theory of reflective practice has garnered unprecedented attention in the field of continuing professional education. In this paper, I examine Schön’s writing on reflective practice and argue that a constructivist orientation is a central, although largely unexplored, underpinning of his work. In particular I consider the work of philosopher Nelson Goodman and suggest that he is a major constructivist influence within Schön’s theory. Secondary constructivist influences such as George Kelly, Jean Piaget and Ernst von Glasersfeld are also highlighted. Given this link, one of the avenues for understanding Schön’s theory of reflective practice may well lie in deepening one’s understanding of constructivist thought.