Using theory in practice — why bother?

I have been involved in education and training for over 35 years now and, during that time, I have noticed certain recurring themes. One of them has been a marked degree of confusion and even concern about the notion of ‘theory’, as if this is something to be afraid of, rather than a valuable underpinning of our work.

If we are going to carry out our professional duties safely and effectively, we need to have a good understanding of the range of issues we are dealing with — issues around human needs and relationships; problem solving; what helps and what hinders; and so much more. In other words, we need a theory base.

I have lost count of the number of times, on training courses or in consultancy projects, I have heard someone say words to the effect that they are interested only in practice, not in theory, and have then gone on to draw on one or more theoretical concepts without even realising that they were doing so!

There are (at least) three problems with using theory in this implicit, unconscious way. The first is that it lacks accountability. If for example, we were asked to justify a particular course of action (in a disciplinary investigation, if a complaint is made or in the event of litigation), we would struggle to do so if we cannot articulate explicitly the rationale behind our thinking.

Second, all theory is open to challenge and therefore needs to be used critically as part of reflective practice. If we are not aware of what concepts or principles we are drawing on, we are not in a position to question them. Our practice can then become dogmatic.

Third, implicit use of theory leaves little or no room for developing our knowledge base. For example, if we are drawing on a particular theory without recognizing we are doing so, how can we develop our knowledge and use of such theory over time? How can we take our knowledge to a more advanced (and therefore more insightful) level?

It has been disheartening to come across so much resistance to the use of theory in practice. But, what has been very positive are those situations where I have suggested to individuals or groups who feel uncomfortable with the notion of using theory that, each time they think of the word ‘theory’, they should replace it with ‘professional knowledge base’. It has been gratifying to see how this can take a lot of pressure off people and make them feel much more at home with drawing on theoretical knowledge. There is just something about that word ‘theory’ that seems to put so many people off.

Yes, at the end of the day, it is indeed practice that counts — actually making a positive difference in concrete situations. But, if that practice is not informed practice, it can be not only ineffective, but also dangerous. Theory is not something to be afraid of, it is a basis from which we can develop a critical understanding of the complex and demanding situations we encounter in the workplace.

Dr Neil Thompson is an independent writer, educator, a visiting professor at the Open University and an adviser to the Vigoroom workplace wellbeing platform (www.vigoroom.co.uk). His Academy at www.NeilThompson.info offers an annual subscription service giving access to 60 of his online courses. This is available to individuals for less than £2 per course or a corporate subscription for up to 300 staff at just £3,000 +VAT.