Praxis refers to the exercise or practice of an art, science, or skill. It can also mean the "customary practice or conduct" of something (Merrrian-Webster:m-w.com). These ideas lie at the heart of a practical education. At MIT Sloan, our goal is to help develop innovative and principled leaders with the skill and passion to make a difference in the world. In order for great ideas to have an effect, they must be turned into action. And an education in praxis offers the tools for that practical action. A cornerstone of this approach is The approach rests on a belief that we equip ourselves to have the best impact on the world by developing and practicing the skills for effective action. Praxis also plays a role in how we learn from others: the practices and conduct of real-world managers and leaders provide illustrations and examples for our own learning.
But the notion of praxis goes beyond practicality: it also rests on the idea of turning theory into action (from Merrrian-Webster: "practical application of a theory"). Pairing theory and action is a hallmark of MIT, and at the Sloan School of Management students prepare by learning theory, tools, and methods in classrooms, act as they apply them in real-world projects, and reflect on their experiences to build their own practice of effective management.
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