Steven Dunn

Knowledge Translation: Common Sense Approaches for Research Reaching Practice Steven Dunn

Billions get spent on research, why do findings often not get used? Research for research sake does not generate progress. Research funds must be used efficiently to maximize potential, including a knowledge translation (KT) plan. Effective KT strategies close the gap between new findings and practice. KT generates progress. After an extensive KT literature review, a case study was conducted surrounding a research project in the Eastern Townships School Board. The project investigated dimensions of influence on motivation/sport participation. A KT plan was devised based on feedback from stakeholders and practitioners. Feedback took the form of pre/post KT plan data. Questionnaires were designed blending open-ended and specific questioning, exploring input and experiences. Three themes guided the organizing the emerging data: 1) Importance of stakeholder input, 2) Sustainability and 3) Feasibility of implementation. The aim was to ensure results/applications reached intended users. A secondary aim was to create the necessary trust between the researchers and the stakeholders. The study outlines process, chronology and formulation of the KT plan as well as challenges/opportunities.