Dimension Dimensions expressed along a continuum   Less sophisticated view More sophisticated view   Nature of Knowledge Certainty of knowledge Viewing knowledge as fixed or fluid Absolute truth and certainty exists Knowledge is tentative and evolving Simplicity of knowledge Viewing knowledge as accumulation of facts or as a set of highly interrelated concepts Knowledge consists of discrete, concrete, knowable facts Knowledge is relative, contingent, and context dependent Nature or process of knowing Source of knowledge Viewing the source of knowledge as external or internal Knowledge originating from outside the self (e.g. an expert or external authority) Knowledge is constructed by individuals through interaction with their environment and others Justification for knowing Justifying what is known based on loose judgment or analysis and evaluation Justification of a view through observation, authority, or on the basis of what feels right Justification of a view through active evaluation or assessment of the evidence, expertise or authority involved