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Theorizing Practice and Practicing Theory

Author

Listed:
  • Martha S. Feldman

    (School of Social Ecology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California 92697)

  • Wanda J. Orlikowski

    (MIT Sloan School of Management, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142)

Abstract

This paper describes the emerging field of practice theory as it is practiced in relation to organizational phenomena. We identify three approaches---empirical, theoretical, and philosophical---that relate to the what, the how, and the why of using a practice lens. We discuss three principles of the theoretical approach to practice and offer examples of how practice theory has been used in the organizational literature and in our own research. We end with a discussion of the challenges and opportunities that practice theory affords organizational scholarship.

Suggested Citation

  • Martha S. Feldman & Wanda J. Orlikowski, 2011. "Theorizing Practice and Practicing Theory," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 22(5), pages 1240-1253, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:ororsc:v:22:y:2011:i:5:p:1240-1253
    DOI: 10.1287/orsc.1100.0612
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