Learning Object

Integrating Practice with Theory

Introduction

Image of a pole with many directional signs showing a lot of questions which can be ask.Welcome to the learning object on integrating practice with theory. The learning opportunities available here are particularly suitable to those tackling Level 9 and Level 10 of the Award.

Section Two, ‘What is Theory?’, helps you consider your own views about theory and how it helps you make judgements in practice.

The remainder of the learning object will introduce you to a particular model to assist you and your learners integrate practice with theory: the Theory Circle {Collingwood, et al. 2008}. The theory circle has three parts to it and we’ll look at each in turn.

Section Three, ‘The Service User Profile’, explores the first part of the Theory Circle.  This is a simple but engaging way to build up a picture of a particular service user’s situation. Importantly this tool is designed for use directly with learners and service users.

Section Four, ‘The Theory Circle’ outlines the second stage of the model. Here, you can encourage your learner(s) to link theory to service users and their situations. The theory comes in two types: theory to inform and theory to intervene.  These are likened to two halves of a circle. Together they serve to contextualise the service user and prompt ideas about how to help them.

Section Five ‘The Andrew Castle Case’ relates to the final stage of the Theory Circle. Here we are introduced to a range of theories to inform and a range of theories to intervene. These allow you to compare and contrast the values embedded in the different theories and the contrasting skills required. By using the same case material the practical implications of choosing one perspective or approach over another is more evident.

Section Six, ‘Conclusion’, summarises some of the main learning points made in the course of your journey through this learning object. 

Image showing circular motionsIn Section Seven you will find a list of references used in the development of this material.

The activities contained in this learning object are designed to help you demonstrate the following learning outcomes from Levels 9 and 10 of the Award as stated in the arrangements documents from the Scottish Qualifications Authority.

Click here to see the outcome

Level 9

To use theory and practice to take appropriate responsibility for the development of the learner’s professional practice within the relevant legislation, policy and guidance

(Support the Learning Environment, learning outcome 4).

To use up-to-date theory in the practice context

(Evidence Requirements)

To critically analyse how (you) developed the learner’s professional practice in (your) setting specifically in relation to agency policy, guidance, legislation, theory and relevant research

(Evidence Requirements)

Level 10

To enable learners to develop their skills of critical reflection when applying theory to practice

(Facilitate Learning, Learning outcome 1)

To develop learning strategies which support the learner’s use of research and theory in their practice

(Evidence Requirements)

To provide evidence of employing a range of teaching/learning strategies to help learners relate theory to practice and to develop required knowledge, skills and values

(Evidence Requirements)


Author and Copyright

© 2009 Scottish Social Services Council. This material was written for the SSSC by Neil Henery. This document is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 2.5 UK : Scotland License. This means you are free to copy, distribute, display, and perform the work; and to make derivative works on condition that you credit SSSC and do not use the work for commercial purposes.  For full details of the licence please visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/2.5/scotland/