Theory v. Practice

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Part 1
Please say that there is close relationship between theory and practice. A theory is a hypothesis which when applied, tested, and proven becomes a theory(1). Theory is used to explain certain phenomenon in a particular setting and should address practical problems. Practice cannot stand by itself without the theoretical questions that guide the research. Without theory data may be collected but without any way of explaining the observed phenomena. In other words theory and practice are dependent on one another. If there is advancement in theory, there will also be advancement in practice(2).

There is a close relationship between theory and practice. Researchers use an empirical approach that studies what is going on in the practical world and how it occurs. The argument is that empirical analysis that represents practice cannot exist without the theory that guides the research. From a different viewpoint theory is a propose relationship between two or more observed phenomena. Theory represent abstract ideas which seek to explain the main points of data. Theory from this standpoint describes practice. Theory represents abstraction and practice represents application. To explain the connection between theory and practice, one can say that theory is abstracted practice and practice is applied theory.

When theory guides practice, there are several issues that occur. Practice claims that those who specialize in theory are detached from the real world. The real world is considered to be the world of practice. On the other hand those who specialize in theory claim that those who specialize in practice have no fundamental understanding of what they do. Those that specialize in theory call practices inappropriate and improper.

There are several issues in translating theory into practice. The production of facts is influenced by power or pecuniary interest. Those groups that benefit from the research carried out and those groups that sponsor research. Another issue in translating theory into practice is that the structure of a particular society theoretically is an expression of class, gender, and race. In this context theory is dominated by dominant groups. Also, theory is influenced by ideology which is a psychological effect that influences human behavior or changes patterns of interaction. The moot issue is that objective theory is not likely. From a different perspective theory is also influenced by values, beliefs, norms, and practices of the people. This includes issues such as privacy, showing dignity, and protecting those that are in the danger of harming themselves or others. The manner in which theory informs practice is determined by the requirements and recommendations of a specific expected outcome. Theories influence practice because their background is required, an theories provide the function of practice. From the perspective of research theory enables the collection, classification, storage, and recovery of information. Also theory provides a framework for analysis. The key issue is that since people are involved in these processes, the information they submit is likely to be biased.

From the perspective of practice the use of theory is to help understand the present world. However, since real world is very dynamic it is difficult for theories to evolve at the same rate. Practice feels that theories are becoming obscure. Practice viewpoint is that theories help put pieces of puzzle together and look at the big picture. Being exposed only to limited aspects of a phenomenon has problems. The use of theory is to establish linkages and develop a broader perspective. Further, in academic field to label something as practical or applied is perceived to be derogatory. At the same time those theories are considered sound that are grounded in practical (empirical) research. According to practice, any theory created must be able to suggest ways it might be practical.
From the perspective of human beings, human beings are thinkers and human beings are doers. These activities do not require distinct capacities. The thinking is influenced by the knowledge of truths about the world. In contrast when we act we are guided by our knowledge of how to perform tasks. In other words thinking is influenced by theory and our actions are guided by practice or practical experience(4). The issue is that that both theory and practice are not distinct cognitive abilities. Artificial classification is created. For example, playing a baseball game, cooking a pancake, or repairing a car are considered practical knowledge. ...