Understanding how we "organize our knowledge" means to understand
our theory. That’s what theory is: the summary and synthesis of what is
known about a field. It is the reduction of our knowledge to the basic ideas,
presented in a way that shows their underlying patterns and relationships. Understanding
theory makes it possible for us to speak with a common vocabulary. Understanding
it should have the effect of helping practitioners see where their piece of
the action fits and interfaces with others and thus should lead to better ways
of working with others. The theory also helps us understand what we don’t
know and, therefore, is the only guide to research.
Tonda Bone on 20 Nov 09Good explanation of the basic definition of "theory" and why we need it.