Author Question: Explain the relationship between theory, research and policy. What will be an ideal ... (Read 14 times)

haleyc112 · **on:** Aug 17, 2018

Explain the relationship between theory, research and policy.

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Discuss what we mean by the context of a theory.

What will be an ideal response?

coyin · **Reply #1 on:** Aug 17, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: Key points may include:
The relationship is linear with theory being the logical start.
Policy should be the end result not the beginning.
Theory helps us develop meaningful research.
Policy should be based on the results of experimental research and evaluation.
There is a feedback loop that represents further clarification of theory based on research.
Examples like scared straight, three-strikes and boot camps illustrate how policymakers did not address research or theory

Answer to Question 2

Answer: Key points may include:
The context of a theory may be social or intellectual.
Social forces are informal surroundings and significant events taking place like war.
Intellectual refers to learning ideas that influence our thinking such as from teachers.
Assumptions may bias our interpretation of events.
When events occur in time influences the theorist and his or her readers.
Writers of theory may follow in the footsteps of their predecessors.
Conservative or liberal sentiments may change over time and influence theory.