Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Practice in Accounting

SYNOPSIS This paper addresses the enduring challenge of bridging the gap between accounting research and its application in practice. Drawing upon insights from the 2024 Financial Accounting and Reporting Section (FARS) plenary panel discussion and contributions from esteemed leaders in the field, we explore the root causes of this disconnect and underscore the importance of narrowing the divide. Our analysis leads to the proposal of practical strategies targeted at key stakeholders—authors, reviewers, editors, and business school deans—with the aim of promoting a more integrated approach to accounting research and practice. Through these recommendations, we endeavor to enhance the relevance and impact of accounting scholarship on real-world financial practices, thereby enriching both the academic and professional realms of accounting. JEL Classifications: A20; I23; M10; M40; M41.