THEORETICAL RESEARCH

 

Theory and practice in Industrial Psychology: Quo vadis?

 

 

Johan CD Augustyn^I; Gawie G Cillié^II

^IAfrica Centre for HIV/AIDS Management, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
^IIDepartment of Industrial Psychology, Stellenbosch University, South Africa

Correspondence

 

 

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ABSTRACT

This article critically evaluates the science and practice of industrial psychology. It reaches the conclusion that a major shift in paradigm and mind-set is essential for the discipline to survive. The article discusses assumptions about knowledge within the science and practice of industrial psychology and suggests ways to expand the notion of scientist and practitioner. It also discusses modes of knowledge acquisition within industrial psychology and proposes a post-modern view of the interface between theory and practice. It concludes with suggestions to revitalise the interface between theory and practice.

Keywords: theory and practice, scientist, practitioner, revitalising interface, post-modern view

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Correspondence:
Gawie G Cillié
E-mail: ggc@sun.ac.za