One of the most fascinating things I have learned so far as a student of literary and rhetorical theory is probably one of the simplest ideas of all - knowledge is a construct. The first time I really grasped that concept - I know I shouldn't admit this - but, for me, the world of writing turned on its head. When we really understand that words are, by themselves, as empty as Ft. Knox, it opens up whole new galaxies of meaning.
According to our Compbiblio text, Bruffee has been "generally considered the first compositionist to urge consideration of socially constructed knowledge" (36) and he has held that "instructors should use collaboration in the classroom, allowing students to participate in the 'conversations of mankind'" (36) - what a powerful statement - what a powerful thought. If you understand that knowledge is a construct and you are willing to collaborate with others and participate in the ongoing dialogue, you might actually, even if it's only in some small way, shape the "converstations of mankind" - and, in that way, use words that have no meaning on their own to create meaning in the world - how awesome is that?!
Bruffee might just be my new hero.
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