Knowledge Translation in Public Health M1

Mar 24, 2025

Lecture Notes: Knowledge Translation and Engaged Scholarship in Public Health

Introduction

  • Instructor: Dr. Sydney Rodco
  • Course Format: Nine modules focusing on knowledge translation and engaged scholarship in public health.
    • First Five Modules: Introduction to knowledge translation and engaged scholarship.
    • Last Three Modules + Live Session: Examples from various fields including Public Health, Climate Change Research, and Urban Planning.
  • Objective: Understanding diverse research methodologies applicable to various careers.

Module 1: What is Knowledge Translation?

  • Definition: Meeting ground between research and action; aims to effect change across sectors.
  • Importance: Useful for addressing societal challenges.
  • Resource: Knowledge Translation Toolkit available online.

Understanding Research and Action

  • Research: Systematic investigation to create new knowledge.
    • Types: Basic research, creative work, applied research.
  • Action: Implementation to achieve specific aims.
    • Varied across sectors (e.g., environmental initiatives, healthcare strategies).

Research Process

  1. Identify general study area.
  2. Choose a research topic and plan methodology.
  3. Collect, analyze, and present data.
  4. Knowledge Translation Role: Can be integrated at any stage to ensure practical application.

Models of Knowledge Translation (KT)

  1. Model A (Research Push): Researchers share findings with external audiences using suitable formats (e.g., videos, policy briefs).
  2. Model B (Demand Pull): Knowledge users request research for specific issues (e.g., special grant calls).
  3. Partnership Model: Collaborative projects between researchers and knowledge users.
  4. Platform Model: Institutions facilitate connections between knowledge producers and users (e.g., Alberta Innovates).

Knowledge Management in KT

  • Concepts: Explicit vs. Tactic Knowledge.
    • Explicit: Easily documented (e.g., educational content).
    • Tactic: Intuitive, experience-based knowledge.
  • Management Strategy: Define what, how, and why knowledge is shared, targeting specific audiences.

Communicating Knowledge

  • Key Principle: Engage audiences by making content relevant and understandable.
  • Strategy: Use familiar contexts and appealing formats to convey research effectively.

Conclusion

  • Next Module: Focus on communication strategies across different audiences.

These notes summarize the key points from the lecture on knowledge translation in public health, providing a study aid for understanding the methodologies and applications discussed by Dr. Sydney Rodco.