An integrative approach to personal epistemology: A guiding model

This commentary brings together a collection of articles that addresses several of the important issues in research on personal epistemology. We also propose a more integrated model that elaborates on the following fundamental elements of personal epistemology: (a) a mechanism of change (i.e., epistemic doubt, epistemic volition, and resolution strategies), (b) dimensions of beliefs, (c) advanced beliefs, (d) metacognition, (e) conditions for change (i.e., dissonance and personal relevance), (f) affect, (g) cognitive abilities and environment, and (h) reciprocal causation. Our goal in developing this model is to integrate many of the salient theoretical issues raised by the diverse models of personal epistemology represented in this special issue as a way to guide and inform future research and educational practice.