Using Pragmatism to Bridge the Gap Between Academe and Practice
Date
2006-04
Authors
Shields, Patricia M.
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Abstract
This paper is to first, describe the nature of the academe/practitioner divide. Second, the practitioner friendly philosophy, classical pragmatism is introduced as a way of addressing the divide. Classical pragmatism treats theory and methods of research as tools of practice. Third, the Texas State MPA Program successfully applies classical pragmatism and the "theory as tool of practice" in their capstone research projects. In so doing student/practitioner skills are strengthened and a practitioner friendly academic research (process and product) results.
Description
Keywords
pragmatism, theory and practice, Dewey, John, Public Administration, Political Science
Citation
Shields, P. M. (2006). Using pragmatism to bridge the gap between academe and practice. Paper presented at the American Society for Public Administration Annual Conference, Denver, Colorado.