Boundary constructions as knowledge flows within and between work groups

Abstract

This paper proposes the concept of boundary constructions. An initial framework depicts subjects shaping objects across enactment phenomena just as, conversely, objects shape subjects’ interpretations and experiences. Results from an ethnographic case study within a community of practice highlight the blurring or dynamic entanglement that occurs between objects and subjects, thus going beyond conventional dualism. Such dynamics involve a constant flux or movement of co/reconstructions at the boundary (or social intersection) of intra-acting subjects. These boundary co/reconstructions are embedded within effective workplace dialogue, and are thus part of the process of knowing (or flow of emergent knowledge).