The theory-theory gap: the challenge for nurse teachers

Abstract

The paper begins with a review of the nature of theory-based practice and how it is evidenced. This is then used to demonstrate that theory is based upon practice and that there is not a gap between theory and practice but rather there is a theory-theory gap which is evidenced by a lack of experiential knowledge. The paper continues by exploring ways in which theory can be integrated in practice to provide the student with experiential knowledge and the challenge this creates for nurse teachers. It finishes with a proposal for the way in which the nurse teacher might develop his/her clinical role to address the gap whilst securing their basis for the future in higher education.