ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the rationale for and methods of building theory from practice in the conflict resolution field, suggesting an epistemology of theories in practice. It considers the types and roles of theory in conflict resolution, drawing on Aristotle's phronesis, a form of wisdom related to practical action, and Argyris and Schon's reflective practice and theories-in-use. The chapter considers efforts to address the theory-practice gap in the field, and offers the concept of theories in practice and learning from practice as ways to address this gap. The chapter presents four specific methodological approaches which build theory from practice: engaged scholarship, reflective practice, evaluation, and action research. It considers both constraints and opportunities for engaging research in practice.
