The 'matching principle': Exploring connections between practice and training in therapeutic child care: Part 2: The matching principle-concept and application

Abstract

Abstract This, the second of two linked papers, outlines the concept of the 'matching principle', which is defined as 'the proposal that in training for professional practice the mode of training should match the mode of practice'. This principle is offered as a guiding principle in the design of training programmes, and especially in planning for the 'process' element in training; the established concept of the 'reflection process' is offered as a framework by means of which the operation of the matching principle may be analysed. The design of one training programme in particular, the MA in Therapeutic Child Care at the University of Reading, is offered as a case study in the application of the matching principle, and examples are given of various elements in this programme which are intended to 'match' various elements of therapeutic child care practice. Finally there is some discussion of the wider applicability of the matching principle.