Theory from practice for practice: is this a reality?

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Theory Development
• Knowledge Translation

Background:

• The assertion that theory originates from practice for practical application is a cornerstone of nursing scholarship.
• Understanding the historical evolution of nursing knowledge is crucial for contextualizing current theory development.
• The purpose and motivations behind nursing theory generation are subjects of ongoing debate.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the validity of the Dickoff & James proposition in contemporary nursing.
• To analyze 'practice theory' as a potential solution to the theory-practice gap.
• To investigate the feasibility of practitioners developing practice theory and identify associated challenges.

Main Methods:

• Historical analysis of nursing knowledge development.
• Conceptual analysis of 'practice theory'.
• Discussion of practitioner-led theory development, including reflection and action research.

Main Results:

• The paper supports the concept of practice theory as a means to reduce the gap between nursing theory and practice.
• Identifies potential obstacles for practitioners in developing practice theory.
• Highlights reflection and action research as facilitators for practitioner-led theory development.

Conclusions:

• Practice theory, derived from and intended for practice, offers a viable strategy to enhance nursing.
• Empowering practitioners through methods like reflection and action research can foster theory development.
• Addressing identified obstacles is key to successfully implementing practice theory in nursing.