Knowledge translation

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Knowledge Translation (or KT) can be used as a noun or a verb: it describes either a structured process or the activity that results in scientifically researched evidence being used to improve the outcomes of professional practice.

According to this general description, KT may relate to any science-based field, however the term is most commonly associated with medicine and healthcare. This description by the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR) is often cited as prevailing:

“The exchange, synthesis, and ethically-sound application of knowledge – within a complex set of interactions among researchers and users – to accelerate the capture of the benefits of research for [all] through improved health, more effective services and products, and a strengthened health care system”. (Reference to come)

Knowledge Translation may also pertain specifically to healthcare that is managed or funded by the State (as in Canada and the UK); the term Research Commercialization might otherwise be more appropriate.

Beyond KT being an instance of Knowledge Management within medicine (or within the applied-sciences), it is distinguished by at least three other features. Knowledge Translation:

• emphasizes the process of qualifying research evidence;

• supports the flow of data and understanding from researcher to practitioner/ policy maker (i.e,. directing changes in practice) as well as the flow from practitioner/policy maker to researcher (i.e., directing researchers to relevant questions);

• pertains to complex social and organizational contexts.

"While the term KT may appear similar to dissemination or diffusion, it can be differentiated by its emphasis on the quality of research prior to dissemination and implementation of research evidence within a system. Unlike simple dissemination activities (e.g., distributing user friendly information, developing research briefs, etc.), KT requires coordination and process improvement amongst a complex system to influence behaviour change and patient outcomes". (reference to come)

More to follow