To date, theory in Education Studies has been dominated by a particular view of what should count as ''scientific'' theory. David Turner argues that this approach does not necessarily provide a firm foundation for policy planning and professional activity. Using examples from linear programming, game theory, decision theory and chaos theory, he demonstrates how certain insights from modern developments in, for example, the social sciences can be used to stimulate more rewarding debate amongst educational researchers.

To date, theory in Education Studies has been dominated by a particular view of what should count as ''scientific'' theory. David Turner argues that this approach does not necessarily provide a firm foundation for policy planning and professional activity. Using examples from linear programming, game theory, decision theory and chaos theory, he demonstrates how certain insights from modern developments in, for example, the social sciences can be used to stimulate more rewarding debate amongst educational researchers.

To date, theory in Education Studies has been dominated by a particular view of what should count as ''scientific'' theory. David Turner argues that this approach does not necessarily provide a firm foundation for policy planning and professional activity. Using examples from linear programming, game theory, decision theory and chaos theory, he demonstrates how certain insights from modern developments in, for example, the social sciences can be used to stimulate more rewarding debate amongst educational researchers.