Research as a kaleidoscope on practice

Insufficient attention is paid to the relationship between research and practice in construction. Those in industry want straightforward guidance, but inhabit a complex socially constructed world. As a result, they are often disappointed with the contribution of research, either because it is too theoretical or because the simple solutions suggested do not work. However, researchers have a valuable contribution to make owing to their opportunity for reflection, and it is proposed that this can be viewed in three different ways: as 'microscopes', 'telescopes' or 'periscopes' on practice. Each of these views involves different epistemologies and methodologies, but combining the three approaches in a Kaleidoscopic Research Model will allow differences to thrive and synergies to be sought. Only then will an effective dialogue develop where research impacts solidly and continuously on the improvement of practice, while at the same time practice constantly challenges and refreshes research.