What's Assumed in "What Works": A Critical Construct Synthesis Approach

• In Event: Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: Conceptualizing Multiple and Multimodal Methodologies

Abstract

We propose critical construct synthesis as an approach for investigating tacit constructs that shape the focus and findings of academic literature. We demonstrate use of this method to interrogate constructs informing a systematic review of literature on work transition for students situated on the autism spectrum. The demonstration substantiates our claim that a critical construct synthesis contributes to academic discourse by revealing key constructs and how their underlying assumptions constrain possibilities for knowledge production. Using our proposed method, scholars can make constructs and assumptions in academic literature (included and excluded from systematic reviews) transparent and so expose them to public scrutiny.

Authors

• Jennifer R. Wolgemuth, University of South Florida

• Tyler Hicks, University of South Florida

• Vonzell Agosto, University of South Florida