Articles on Knowledge Translation
The knowledge translation process includes knowledge dissemination, communication, technology transfer, ethical context, knowledge management, knowledge utilization, two-way exchange between researchers and those who apply knowledge, implementation research, technology assessment, synthesis of results with the global context, the development of consensus guidelines, and more (CIHR, 2004 as cited in Sudsawad, 2007, p. 2).
Following are some articles from the KT Library that address this topic. NCDDR staff reviewed a number of articles, developed a brief abstract, and assigned ratings based on strength of evidence, readability, and consumer orientation. For more information on these ratings, see KT Library Descriptor Scales.
Davis, D., Evans, M., Jadad, A., Perrier, L., Rath, D., Ryan, D., et al. (2003).
The case for knowledge translation: Shortening the journey from evidence to effect. British Medical Journal,
327, 33-35. Full-text retrieved May 3, 2007: http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/picrender.fcgi?artid=164240&blobtype=pdf 
Abstract: Davis et al. compare how continuing medical education (CME), continuing professional development (CPD), and knowledge translation promote the implementation of evidenced-based research into practice. The article notes that the passive education embraced by the CME and CPD models do not change physicians’ behavior. The authors posit that knowledge translation is more effective in producing change and present specific ways in which knowledge translation is different from CME and CPD as justification for their position.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Fielden, S. J., Rusch, M. L., Masinda, M. T., Sands, J., Frankish, J., & Evoy, B. (2007). Key considerations for logic model development in research partnerships: A Canadian case study. Evaluation and Program Planning, 30, 115-124. Abstract with link to fee-based full-text retrieved May 22, 2007: http://tinyurl.com/ys9klf
Abstract: Fielden advocate using a logic model for planning and implementing partnerships to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice. The authors describe the development of a community-academic research partnership to address issues regarding vulnerable populations. The article notes the advantage of logic models in establishing common purpose and vision; however, the authors also report the challenges of such relationships due to issues of trust, power, commitment, motivation, and accountability. The authors suggest how to address the issues raised.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Ginexi, E. M., & Hilton, T. F. (2006). What's next for translation research? Evaluation & The Health Professions, 29(3), 334-347. Abstract with link to fee-based full-text retrieved May 3, 2007: http://ehp.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/29/3/334
Abstract: Ginexi and Hilton list several factors that inhibit the translation of research knowledge into daily practice. The article reports that meta-analysis research informs the field of "best practices." Finally, the authors note a current trend to large-scale research with the potential for large-scale dissemination.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Glasgow, R. E., Lichtenstein, E., & Marcus, A. C. (2003). Why don’t we see more translation of health promotion research to practice? Rethinking the efficacy-to-effectiveness transition. American Journal of Public Health, 93(8), 1261–1267. Full-text retrieved May 3, 2007: PubMed citation
Abstract: Glasgow, Lichtenstein, and Marcus note the large discrepancy between the number of efficacy and effectiveness studies. The authors suggest that the gap is due to inherent differences in how the studies are planned and implemented. The article includes recommendations for placing greater emphasis on external validation. The authors suggest how to enhance Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) criteria for reporting randomized clinical trials that reflect consideration of external validity. A companion article is available in this collection entitled, "Evaluating the relevance, generalization, and applicability of research" (Green, L. W., & Glasgow, R. E., 2006).
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Gold, M., & Taylor, E. F. (2007). Moving research into practice: Lessons from the US Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's IDSRN program. Implementation Science, 2(9), 1-28. Full-text retrieved May 3, 2007: http://www.implementationscience.com/content/2/1/9
Abstract: Gold and Taylor describe their methodology and results in evaluating the Integrated Delivery Systems Research network (IDSRN) program of the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). The authors conducted interviews and reviewed program documents as well as analyzed projects and case studies. The results supported the concept of linking researchers with users of the research in a team-based approach. Further, IDSRN provided a mechanism to address issues in an expedited manner. The results noted weaknesses in the administrative structure of IDSRN, which resulted in its reorganization into ACTION (Accelerating Change and Transformation of Organizations and Networks).
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Green, L. W., & Glasgow, R. E. (2006). Evaluating the relevance, generalization, and applicability of research: Issues in external validation and translation methodology. Evaluation & the Health Professions, 29(1), 126-153. Abstract with link to fee-based full-text retrieved May 3, 2007: http://ehp.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/29/1/126
Abstract: Green and Glasgow suggest that current research does not include sufficient emphasis on external validation or generalizability. The authors propose criteria to evaluate the external validity of research, such as the inclusion of members of the target population in the study; use of intended settings; reporting the expertise and training of people providing implementation, as well as any adaptations made for different settings; effects beyond primary outcomes including quality of life issues; and reporting costs. The article recommends that external validity should be included in the planning process, thus making the research relevant to the people who will use the outcomes for setting policy or for decision making on an individual level. A companion article is available in this collection entitled, "Why don’t we see more translation of health promotion research to practice? Rethinking the efficacy-to-effectiveness translation" (Glasgow, 2003).
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Grimshaw, J., Eccles, M. Thomas, R., MacLennan, G., Ramsay, C., Fraser, C., & Vale, L. (2006). Toward evidence-based quality improvement: Evidence (and its limitations) of the effectiveness of guideline dissemination and implementation strategies 1966-1998. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 21, S14-S20. Abstract with link to fee-based full-text retrieved May 10, 2007: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&list_uids=16637955
Abstract: The Grimshaw et al. systematic review addresses the effectiveness and costs of guideline dissemination and implementation strategies. The authors included studies from 1966 through 1998 and found them to be weak in reporting of methodology. The authors noted the advantages of using paper or electronic reminders to improve care rather than a multifaceted approach of educational outreach. However, the article cautions that after 30 years of research on guideline dissemination and implementation, there continues to be a lack of quality studies to inform the field about quality improvement strategies.
Evidence: 5 – Systematic review
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Harmsworth, S., Turpin, S., & the TQEF National Co-ordination Team. (2000). Creating an effective dissemination strategy: An expanded interactive workbook for educational development projects.
Full-text retrieved April 5, 2007: http://www.innovations.ac.uk/btg/resources/publications/dissemination.pdf
Abstract: The Harmsworth and Turpin document is a step-by-step workbook for research teams to use in developing an effective plan for dissemination of their findings. The authors focus attention on what is to be disseminated, identification of the target populations, establishment of reasonable timeframes, and venue of dissemination. The authors note that effective dissemination involves the recipient to participate in the awareness, understanding or action dictated by the new knowledge.
Evidence: 2 - Expert opinions
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Loveridge, R. (1997). Social science as social reconstruction: A celebration of discontinuity or a test of the resilience of belief? Human Relations, 50(8), 879-884. Abstract with link to fee-based full-text retrieved May 3, 2007: http://hum.sagepub.com/cgi/reprint/50/8/879com/cgi/content/citation/50/8/879
Abstract: Loveridge, the editor of this special 50th year anniversary issue of the journal Human Relations, traces social science scholarship and its impact from the mid- to late 20th century. In the decades after World War II, a social science theory known as "Organizational Behavior" was applied to the management and social administration of organizations. Loveridge advocates rethinking these basic assumptions and convictions on which many institutions still base their practice. This issue of Human Relations explores the issue in specific contexts, such as the United Nations, international media and non-governmental organizations. The article may be of interest to researchers with interest in knowledge value mapping, since it examines the relationship between and among research, practice, and values.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
McClean, S., & Shaw, A. (2005). From schism to continuum? The problematic relationship between expert and lay knowledge-an exploratory conceptual synthesis of two qualitative studies. Qualitative Health Research, 15(6), 729-749. Abstract with link to fee-based full-text retrieved May 3, 2007: http://qhr.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/15/6/729
Abstract: McClean and Shaw explore the relationship between expert and lay knowledge, suggesting that knowledge is on a continuum. They analyze two qualitative studies presenting both the lay and expert points of view via explication of three themes: a mistrust of biomedical knowledge; the role for intuitive, individuated and personalized knowledge; and the potential for different forms of lay expertise.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. (2005). Knowledge translation planning: Background information for the June 9-10, 2005 panel meeting. Paper presented at the meeting of the Knowledge Translation Planning Panel June 9-10, 2005, in Austin, Texas. Full-text retrieved May 3, 2007: http://www.ncddr.org/new/announcements/ktpanel/
Abstract: The National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) produced this document as background information for the meeting of the Knowledge Transition Planning Panel on June 9-10, 2005. It includes information on panel members as well as NIDRR’s knowledge translation goals, general information about knowledge translation, and NIDRR Disability and Rehabilitation Research sample products. The Appendix contains a paper by Mark Johnston, PhD entitled "Applying Evidence Based Standards to Medical Rehabilitation Research: An Overview." The Johnston article is also available in this collection.
Evidence: 2 - Expert opinions
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
NCDDR. (2005). Communities of practice: A strategy for sharing and building knowledge. FOCUS Technical Brief (11). Full-text retrieved January 31, 2007: http://www.ncddr.org/kt/products/focus/focus11/
Abstract: This issue of FOCUS discusses the use of Communities of Practice (CoPs) as a knowledge transfer (KT) strategy. CoPs are "groups of people who share a concern, a set of problems, a passion about a topic, and who deepen their knowledge and expertise in this area by interacting on an ongoing basis" (Wenger, McDermott, & Snyder, 2002). By building on its members' shared knowledge, a CoP can be useful in developing new ideas and new strategies. The NCDDR's efforts to support a CoP for NIDRR grantees are also described.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
NCDDR. (2005). What is knowledge translation? FOCUS Technical Brief (10). Full-text retrieved January 31, 2007: http://www.ncddr.org/kt/products/focus/focus10/
Abstract: This issue of FOCUS discusses knowledge translation, a relatively new term that is used to describe a relatively old problem-the underutilization of evidence-based research in systems of care. This article describes relevant KT concepts, KT planning models, and suggests a working definition for KT that is designed to reflect NIDRR's research and development priorities.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
NCDDR. (2006). Overview of international literature on knowledge translation. FOCUS Technical Brief (14). Full-text retrieved January 31, 2007: http://www.ncddr.org/kt/products/focus/focus14/
Abstract: This issue of FOCUS summarizes the KT process as described by several international authors. International scholars, particularly from Canada and Europe, have published numerous articles on KT processes and strategies. While the majority of these KT articles are published in medical and health-care journals, there is a growing interest in applying the KT concept more generically (i.e., knowledge to action) and to other disciplines, including disability and rehabilitation research.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
NCDDR. (2006). Meet the new NCDDR. FOCUS Technical Brief (13). Full-text retrieved January 31, 2007: http://www.ncddr.org/kt/products/focus/focus13/
Abstract: This issue of FOCUS describes how the impetus for NCDDR's reorganization relates to NIDRR's new emphasis on knowledge translation. It also outlines several of the services the NCDDR will offer to NIDRR grantees and, in some cases, to interested consumers.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Palsbo, S. E., & Kailes, J. I. (2006).
Disability-competent health systems. Disability Studies Quarterly, 26. Full-text retrieved April 6, 2007: http://www.hcbs.org/files/93/4633/Disability_Competency.pdf
Abstract: Palsbo and Kailes outline of the Disability-Competent Health System, using the framework of the commonly-used Chronic Medical Model. The authors challenge health care systems to be more accessible and "disability-competent." Suggestions are made throughout the article on how to modify current practice to meet the needs of persons with disabilities. The article includes an 11-point checklist to assist health care systems in evaluating their ability to serve people with disabilities properly.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: B - Some data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Renger, R., & Hurley, C. (2006). From theory to practice: Lessons learned in the application of the ATM approach to developing logic models. Evaluation and Program Planning, 29(2),106–119. Abstract and link to full-text for purchase from: http://tinyurl.com/29jj5k
Abstract: Renger and Hurley give an overview of the three-step systematic Antecedent, Target, Measurements (ATM) approach to developing logic models. The authors offer the advantages of the ATM approach in comparison to others that have been developed. Further, the article includes practical lessons for implementing the model in a variety of settings.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Scott, A. (2006).
Peer review and the relevance of science. SPRU Electronic Working Paper Series 145, Full-text retrieved April 26, 2007: http://www.sussex.ac.uk/spru/documents/sewp_145.pdf
Abstract: Scott analyzes of the use of peer reviews in funding decisions, academic publishing, and promotions in research institutions and universities. The author suggests that peer reviews tend to downplay social relevance and innovation in preference or judging potential research in comparison to existing knowledge. The article notes that social problems require a peer review process that includes a wider range of competencies and interests, such as external validity, relevance, interdisciplinary effort and level of risk. Further, the author recommends that peer reviews be conducted in a structured manner to make the process more transparent.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Sudsawad, P. (2007). Knowledge translation: Introduction to models, strategies, and measures. Austin, TX: Southwest Educational Development Laboratory, National Center for the Dissemination of Disability Research. Full-text retrieved August 6, 2007 from http://www.ncddr.org/kt/products/ktintro/
Abstract: Knowledge translation (KT) is a complex and multidimensional concept that demands a comprehensive understanding of its mechanisms, methods, and measurements, as well as its influencing factors at the individual and contextual levels—and the interaction between those levels. This literature review is not intended to be an in-depth or systematic review of knowledge translation, but is designed to bring together several aspects of KT from selected literature for the purpose of raising awareness, connecting thoughts and perspectives, and stimulating ideas and questions about KT for future research in this area of inquiry in rehabilitation. It begins with a review of definitions of knowledge translation and identifies and examines KT models. Next, several KT strategies and their effectiveness are explored, and finally, several methods and approaches to measure the use of research knowledge in various dimensions are presented.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Tetroe, J. (2005). A review of knowledge transfer conceptual models, frameworks and theories to facilitate best practice implementation. PowerPoint presentation at the September, 2005, biannual meeting of the Improved Clinical Effectiveness through Behavioural Research Group. Full-text retrieved April 24, 2007: http://www.iceberg-grebeci.ohri.ca/meetings/materialsSept05.html
Abstract: Tetroe summarizes interim results from a study of conceptual models, frameworks, and theories on knowledge translation (planned change). Planned change refers to "deliberately engineering change that occurs in groups that vary in size and setting" (Tetroe, 2005). The review of 30 models/frameworks identified several planned action theories which "promote, plan or implement change" (Tetroe, 2005). Many of the models have concepts in common; however, most have not been empirically tested and generalizability is implied but not supported by data.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Tremblay, G.J.L., Drouin, D., Parker, J., Monette, C., Côté, D., & Reid, R.D. (2004). The Canadian Cardiovascular Society and knowledge translation: Turning best evidence into best practice. Canadian Journal of Cardiology, 20(12), 1195-1198. Full-text retrieved May 3, 2007: http://www.ccs.ca/download/Knowledge_Translation_October2004.pdf
Abstract: Tremblay et al. define knowledge translation as "turning best evidence into best practice" (p. 1195). The authors propose the Canadian Cardiovascular Society to take the lead in knowledge translation of biomedical literature as it relates to cardiology. Further, the article outlines the advantages of knowledge translation in comparison with current practitioners’ continuing medical education (CME) and continuing professional development (CPD).
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Weigold, M. (2002).
Communicating science. In Washington Research Evaluation Network Management Benchmarking Study (Section 4, Chap. 17). Full-text retrieved March 22, 2007: http://www.wren-network.net/resources/benchmark/17-CommunicatingScience.pdf
Abstract: Weigold acknowledges the responsibility of scientists to make their research available to the public. The author notes conflicting priorities between scientists and journalists reporting on their research. In addition, the article categorizes the public’s receptivity to science research, noting that science reporting potential risks seem to garner the greatest audience. Science communication can impact public attitudes and policy-making.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
Woloshin, S., & Schwartz, L. M. (2006). What’s the rush? The dissemination and adoption of preliminary research results. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 98(6), 372-373. Full-text retrieved May 3, 2007: http://jncicancerspectrum.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/jnci;98/6/372
Abstract: Woloshin and Schwartz raise the issue of adopting the results of interim research into clinical practice. The authors recommended that meeting organizers and medical journal editors coordinate the presentation of results with the publication process, thus allowing for more complete information to be presented and establishing the expectation that research would be published near the same time as the meeting. The article includes a checklist for practitioners to consult in determining whether to use preliminary research findings. Finally, the authors recommend that any preliminary finding should include a caution that the information may change before the study is completed.
Evidence: 1 - Author(s) opinion
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)
World Health Organization. (2005).
Bridging the "know-do" gap meeting on knowledge translation in global health. Full-text retrieved April 5, 2007: http://www.who.int/entity/kms/WHO_EIP_KMS_2006_2.pdf
Abstract: The World Health Organization (WHO) document provides a summary of proceedings of a meeting of international representatives on knowledge translation, hosted by WHO. In recognition of the gap between research evidence and practical application, the purpose of the meeting was to develop recommendations for action to bridge the "know-do" gap. The participants strongly supported knowledge translation as an important strategy in addressing the gap while promoting a culture of learning, critical thinking and innovation.
Evidence: 2 - Expert opinions
Consumer Orientation: C - No data
Readability: III - High (Grade 12 or above)