Understanding leadership has been a great journey for me. When I think I’ve found the type of leader I am, I discover something new about myself and or in new information learned. Currently I lead a few different teams in various industries. In all instances, I lead teams of individuals that are experts in their crafts. To understand the three types of knowledge - theoretical, research and practice - makes fulfilling the role of a leader more attainable. Theoretical mastery is important because theories are developed based on a pattern. Leaders can learn so much from understanding the patterns of leadership development. This can be done through observation, investigation, or a mixture of the two. Readers use theories to justify what they are trying to prove as truth. Theories are well supported by evidence (Wallace and Wray, 2011). This is what makes theories so important to me as a leader. Having knowledge about theories influence my decision-making process and strategies for business transactions and operations.
Research knowledge is a critical part to the success of any leader. Research is the way to collect evidence pertaining to one’s expertise. As a leader, evidence is very important. I’ve had moments where I’ve questioned a response to a leader's decision. Understanding research helps me to predict results and be effective in my position.
Practice knowledge is the "know-how entailed in the skillful performance of practical tasks" (Wallace and Wray, 2011). It is the collection of data by professionals and practitioners. This type of knowledge is key to the overall success of a leader because it is the knowledge that examines results. It is the knowledge that is tied to the execution of a strategy. These types of knowledge - theoretical, research, and practical are all critical to the success of a leader in any field.
Reference:
Wallace, M., & Wray, A. (2011). Critical reading and writing for postgraduates (2nd ed). Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection database.
