Symbolic Interactionism, Social Constructivism and the Notion of Social Capital. On the Quest for the Right Paradigm

Tasler, N. (2008) Symbolic Interactionism, Social Constructivism and the Notion of Social Capital. On the Quest for the Right Paradigm. College of Arts and Social Sciences Moving Forward PG Conference, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, 11-12 June 2008.

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Abstract

The working title for my PhD research project is ‘Creative Learning Processes of Refugee Children and the Utilisation of Social Capital’. Due to the focus on learning processes and the utilisation of Social Capital I was not only interested in looking into paradigms which engage with the creation of meaning. Thus I was looking into Symbolic Interactionism and Social Constructivism. Through my involvement with the Schools and Social Capital Network of the Applied Educational Research Scheme (AERS) the links between the approaches occurred to me. Symbolic Interactionism as well as Social Constructivism rely on the focus of social environment and social interactions. In Symbolic Interactionism the interactions are taking place upon objects. They are defined as other human beings and their categories, guiding ideas (norms, values …) as well as daily life situations (Blumer, 1969). Taking up this definition social networks thus relations within them, do not only belong in the category of objects. Social networks are objects in this sense, additionally to being the space where these meanings are created at. Therefore it seems to be inevitable to explore interlinks of the paradigms of Symbolic Interactionism, Social Constructivism and Social Capital. I set out to explore this connection because it might help me scaffolding my research in terms of data analysis and interpretation. If meaning is deriving out of social interactions within the social environment and Social Capital is creating social environments as well as inheriting norms, values and regulations there might be reciprocity between the concepts.

Item Type:Conference or Workshop Item
Keywords:Symbolic interactionism, social capital, social constructivism, paradigms, theory.
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Tasler, Dr Nathalie
Authors: Tasler, N.
Subjects:L Education > LA History of education
L Education > LB Theory and practice of education
L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education
College/School:University Services > Learning and Teaching Services Division
University Services > Student and Academic Services > Academic Services

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