A Theory of Professional Practice: Implications for Research on Professional Education.

Overview & Synopsis

This concept paper proposes a set of curriculum issues for inclusion in the emerging research agenda on professional education. The focus of the proposed recommendations is upon the interface between professional practice and professional education. A formal theory is set forth of professional practice that emerged from a substantive grounded theory study on the nature of educational practice in hospitals. This formal theory is related to a view of curriculum which is relevant to education for professions according to theories on reflective practice. A set of implications for research in professional education is suggested. First is the need for a systematic examination of the extent to which a formal theory of practice fits within the scholarly tradition of a wide range of professions. A second avenue of inquiry is the implications of the formal theory of professional practice for the planning, development, implementation and evaluation of curriculum in professional education. A third avenue encompasses questions related to the structure and process of professional education curricula. A fourth area is an examination of modes of learning and instruction. Finally, the issue of evaluating and certifying competence is pointed out as a major concern of educators in the professions. (JD)