The Concept of Theory to Practice
In simple terms, “theory to practice” describes the translation of ideas about how children grow and learn into the decisions we make and actions we take as teachers (Dewey, 1904; Mezirow, 1997). As you have learned in this chapter, our thinking today about early education and curriculum is derived from multiple sources and principles that have evolved over time. Curricula vary depending on how those core ideas are combined, integrated, interpreted, and influenced by culture, society, and individuals involved in curriculum development and implementation.