Lessons learned: towards a framework for integration of theory and practice in academic development

Abstract

In this paper, I describe an approach to the integration of theory and practice at the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and organizational levels. The results of the research projects in which I have been involved over the last ten years are used to illustrate how these three levels have facilitated the identification of three tensions. These tensions together create a framework that can help academic developers better understand how to approach the challenges of advocating for the integration of higher education theory with academic practice in their own institutional environments, and how this integration is linked to existing higher education literature.

Conversations that make meaningful change in teaching, teachers, and academic development

“…To create the possibility of a 'win zone' we need to help teachers see academic development as a space of worthwhile work within a trusting and trusted community of colleagues. This echoes recent scholarship that demonstrates the importance of academic development focusing on meaningful questions and practices (Bolander Laksov, 2019;Condon et al, 2016), holistic understandings of our colleagues and our work (Sutherland, 2018;Timmermans & Sutherland, 2020), and conditions that foster care, trust, and agency (McGrath, 2020;Stocks & Trevitt, 2016;Timmermans et al, 2018).…”

Shifting to team-based faculty development: a programme designed to facilitate change in medical education

“…These results are also valid when it comes to the integration of educational research into teaching practice (Alkin & Taut, 2003). When striving for integration between higher education theory and teaching practice, we used the three levels of challenges that we previously identified in the process of faculty development (Bolander Laksov, 2018): the role of teams, establishing ownership and obtaining legitimacy.…”

The Sandwich Model Workshop - An Innovative Integrated Teaching Approach for Theory and Practice-Based Knowledge in Marketing

“…These and other studies mainly point to critical aspects such as the growing expectation of the labor market regarding competencies. There is need for reducing conflict between theoretical and practical skills (Bolander Laksov, 2019) and for creating a workforce that can appreciate the ongoing socio-economic changes in relation to their employers. Also, it is critical to create human capital with a heightened awareness and understanding of multicultural and global issues.…”

“…The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (2020) emphasizes the need to create a space where academia and practice can co-educate and create more effective managerial talent. Adopting innovative teaching practices is critical to increasing the skill set and competencies of students, and reducing the embedded tensions (Bolander Laksov, 2019). Both passive and active learning methods must be integrated as a singular model for enhanced student engagement, however, it remains scantly practiced in contemporary teaching modules (Bennett & Raymond, 2019).…”