Collaborative strategies for knowledge translation: the African-German CEBHA+ research network

Abstract Background The Collaboration for Evidence-based Healthcare and Public Health in Africa (CEBHA+) is an NCD research consortium that seeks to engage policy-makers and practitioners throughout the research process in order to build lasting relationships, enhance evidence uptake and build long-term capacity among partner institutions in Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa and Uganda. This integrated knowledge translation (IKT) approach includes the formal development and implementation of country-specific engagement strategies. Methods An early-stage evaluation is taking place in Mid-2020. Online surveys and qualitative interviews with researchers and policy-and-practice partners will inform adaptation of country-specific strategies, advance the initial programme theory and contribute to the science of IKT. Results We present three pertinent observations based on the development and implementation of an overarching CEBHA+ IKT approach and five country-specific strategies over the last two years: Despite being informed by an overarching IKT programme theory, the site-specific strategies and resulting partnerships vary markedly, representing the whole continuum of integrated knowledge translation.The diversity of approaches is due to different understandings of IKT, discontinuity of staff, lack of IKT training, and perceptions of usefulness (compared to ongoing research activities) among CEBHA+ researchers.The individual, dynamic and often pre-existing relationships of researchers and partners from policy and practice are central to IKT, but capturing these within the programme theory and monitoring them remains challenging. Conclusions These observations are useful to guide further evaluation and cross-country comparison. Close examination of relationships and conceptualisation of IKT as a continuum may provide valuable insights into the circumstances that make IKT efforts worthwhile. Key messages Translating evidence into policy and practice is reliant on partnerships between researchers and policy-and-practice partners. These can be formalised but the relationships remain complex and dynamic.

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Mixed Method Evaluation of the CEBHA+ Integrated Knowledge Translation Approach: A Protocol

10.21203/rs.3.rs-117198/v1 ◽

2020 ◽

Author(s):

Lisa Pfadenhauer ◽

Tanja Grath ◽

Peter Delobelle ◽

Nasreen Jessani ◽

Joerg J Meerpohl ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Knowledge Translation ◽

Complex Intervention ◽

Early Stage ◽

Research Process ◽

Integrated Knowledge Translation ◽

Sub Saharan Africa ◽

Comparative Case Study ◽

Policy Document ◽

Integrated Knowledge

Abstract BackgroundThe Collaboration for Evidence-based Healthcare and Public Health in Africa (CEBHA+) is a research consortium concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of non-communicable diseases. CEBHA+ seeks to engage policymakers and practitioners throughout the research process in order to build lasting relationships, enhance evidence uptake, and create long-term capacity among partner institutions in Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa and Uganda in collaboration with two German universities. This integrated knowledge translation (IKT) approach includes the formal development, implementation and evaluation of country specific IKT strategies.MethodsWe have conceptualised the CEBHA+ IKT approach as a complex intervention in a complex system. We will employ a comparative case study (CCS) design and mixed methods to facilitate an in-depth evaluation. We will use quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, quarterly updates, and a policy document analysis to capture the process and outcomes of IKT across the African CEBHA+ partner sites. We will conduct an early stage (early 2020) and a late-stage evaluation (early 2022), triangulate the data collected with various methods at each site and subsequently compare our findings across the five sites.Discussion Evaluating a complex intervention such as the CEBHA+ IKT approach is complicated, even more so when undertaken across five diverse countries. Despite conceptual, methodological and practical challenges, our comparative case study addresses important evidence gaps: While involving decision-makers in the research process is gaining traction worldwide, we still know very little regarding (i) whether this approach really makes a difference to evidence uptake, (ii) the mechanisms that make IKT successful, and (iii) relevant differences across socio-cultural contexts. The evaluation described here is intended to provide relevant insights on all of these aspects, notably in countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, and is expected to contribute to the science of IKT overall.

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Initiation is recognized as a fundamental early phase of integrated knowledge translation (IKT): qualitative interviews with researchers and research users in IKT partnerships

BMC Health Services Research ◽

10.1186/s12913-019-4573-4 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 19 (1) ◽

Cited By ~ 2

Author(s):

Maria Maddalena Zych ◽

Whitney B. Berta ◽

Anna R. Gagliardi

Keyword(s):

Knowledge Translation ◽

Web Sites ◽

Early Phase ◽

Qualitative Interviews ◽

Effective Means ◽

Integrated Knowledge Translation ◽

Policy And Practice ◽

Research Activities ◽

Research User ◽

Integrated Knowledge

Abstract Background Health care researcher-research user partnerships, referred to as integrated knowledge translation (IKT), have been adopted on an international basis, and are an effective means of co-generating and implementing evidence into policy and practice. Prior research suggests that an initiation period is essential for establishing functional partnerships. To characterize IKT initiation and describe determinants of IKT initiation success, this study explored IKT initiation processes, enablers, and barriers among researchers and research users involved in IKT partnerships. Methods A descriptive qualitative approach was used compliant with COREQ standards. Canadian researchers and research users in research collaborations were identified on publicly-available directories and web sites, and referred by those interviewed. They were asked to describe how partnerships were initiated, influencing factors, the length of initiation, and interventions needed to support initiation. Sampling was concurrent with data collection and analysis to achieve thematic saturation. Data were analyzed using constant comparative technique by all members of the research team. Results In total, 22 individuals from 6 provinces were interviewed (9 researchers, 11 research users, 2 connectors). They confirmed that IKT initiation is a distinct early phase of partnerships. The period ranged from 6 months to 2 years for 75.0% of participants in pre-existing partnerships, to 6 years for newly-formed partnerships. High-level themes were: Newly identifying and securing partners is an intensive process; Processes and activities take place over a protracted period through multiple interactions; Identifying and engaging committed partners is reliant on funding; and Partnership building is challenged by maintaining continuity and enthusiasm. Participants underscored the need for an IKT partner matching forum, IKT initiation toolkit, and funding for non-research activities required during IKT initiation to establish functional researcher-research user partnerships. Themes were largely similar regardless of participant years of experience with IKT or being involved in a new versus pre-existing partnership. Conclusions IKT initiation is a recognized and important early phase of IKT that establishes functional partnerships, and once established, ongoing partnership for subsequent projects is likely. Further research is needed to develop and evaluate approaches recommended by participants for stimulating IKT initiation.

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Mixed method evaluation of the CEBHA+ integrated knowledge translation approach: a protocol

Health Research Policy and Systems ◽

10.1186/s12961-020-00675-w ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 19 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Lisa M. Pfadenhauer ◽

Tanja Grath ◽

Peter Delobelle ◽

Nasreen Jessani ◽

Joerg J. Meerpohl ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Knowledge Translation ◽

Complex Intervention ◽

Early Stage ◽

Research Process ◽

Integrated Knowledge Translation ◽

Sub Saharan Africa ◽

Comparative Case Study ◽

Policy Document ◽

Integrated Knowledge

Abstract Background The Collaboration for Evidence-based Healthcare and Public Health in Africa (CEBHA+) is a research consortium concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of non-communicable diseases. CEBHA+ seeks to engage policymakers and practitioners throughout the research process in order to build lasting relationships, enhance evidence uptake, and create long-term capacity among partner institutions in Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa and Uganda in collaboration with two German universities. This integrated knowledge translation (IKT) approach includes the formal development, implementation and evaluation of country specific IKT strategies. Methods We have conceptualised the CEBHA+ IKT approach as a complex intervention in a complex system. We will employ a comparative case study (CCS) design and mixed methods to facilitate an in-depth evaluation. We will use quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, quarterly updates, and a policy document analysis to capture the process and outcomes of IKT across the African CEBHA+ partner sites. We will conduct an early stage (early 2020) and a late-stage evaluation (early 2022), triangulate the data collected with various methods at each site and subsequently compare our findings across the five sites. Discussion Evaluating a complex intervention such as the CEBHA+ IKT approach is complicated, even more so when undertaken across five diverse countries. Despite conceptual, methodological and practical challenges, our comparative case study addresses important evidence gaps: While involving decision-makers in the research process is gaining traction worldwide, we still know very little regarding (i) whether this approach really makes a difference to evidence uptake, (ii) the mechanisms that make IKT successful, and (iii) relevant differences across socio-cultural contexts. The evaluation described here is intended to provide relevant insights on all of these aspects, notably in countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, and is expected to contribute to the science of IKT overall.

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Knowledge translation activity of a domestic violence research network: a scoping survey

Journal of Gender-Based Violence ◽

10.1332/239868021x16191835307584 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Jacqui Cameron ◽

Cathy Humphreys ◽

Kelsey Hegarty

Keyword(s):

Domestic Violence ◽

Knowledge Translation ◽

Lived Experience ◽

Online Survey ◽

Research Process ◽

Research Network ◽

Translation Strategies ◽

Inadequate Knowledge ◽

Knowledge Translation Strategies ◽

Research Findings

Introduction: Research networks undertake work collaboratively on complex areas of research. Few studies examine how these networks develop their knowledge translation activity. Focusing on a domestic violence research network (DVRN), the aim of this study was to answer the question: What is the shared understanding of knowledge translation and activity in a domestic violence research network?Methods: A sample of DVRN members undertook an anonymous online survey about their knowledge translation activity.Results: Completed by 49 of a potential 65 DVRN members (75% completion rate), findings suggested members use multiple knowledge translation definitions, and that different stages of the research process engage people with lived-experience and policymakers undertaking lower levels of engagement than practitioners. Innovative engagement mechanisms to communicate research findings were limited, and knowledge translation barriers included budget, time, capacity, limitation of models, organisational emphasis and support. Finally, there was inadequate knowledge translation evaluation.Conclusion: Overcoming knowledge translation barriers is essential to ensure meaningful collaboration particularly with survivors who are often the missing voice of knowledge translation. Future studies could determine what impact, if any, increasing engagement of survivors and policymakers during all stages of the research process has on knowledge translation. Key messages <ul><li>This study has identified the need for meaningful collaboration with survivors and policymakers during all stages of the research process.</li> <li>Innovative engagement mechanisms are essential to engage end-users.</li> <li>A focus on evaluation of knowledge translation strategies is warranted.</li></ul>

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A Tripartite Knowledge Translation Program: Innovative Patient-Centered Approach to Clinical Research Participation for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis International ◽

10.1155/2021/5531693 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 2021 ◽

pp. 1-7

Author(s):

Aman Saini ◽

Colleen Cochran ◽

Audrey Zucker-Levin ◽

Sarah J. Donkers ◽

Pawan Kumar ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Multiple Sclerosis ◽

Knowledge Translation ◽

Clinical Research ◽

Research Program ◽

Research Participation ◽

Research Process ◽

Patient Centered ◽

Research Activities ◽

Strongly Agree ◽

Experiential Research

Background. Knowledge translation (KT) models that represent an individual’s perspective are a sign of effective KT. Some common challenges in KT include participant engagement, organization of the team, and time demands of the participants. We implemented a unique tripartite KT program to (1) share current research, (2) inform persons living with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) about the clinical research process, and (3) invite pwMS to immediately participate in clinical research. The primary aim was to determine participants’ perspectives on the value and acceptability of an experiential research program offered at a patient and family educational conference. Methods. A team of researchers identified factors that would impact the logistics of hosting an experiential research program at a conference and designed a unique tripartite KT program. The local multiple sclerosis (MS) society was engaged to select an appropriate location and invite stakeholders to the conference. A survey to determine participants’ perspectives on the value and acceptability of the experiential research program was developed and analyzed. Results. 65 pwMS attended the conference, and 44 (67.7%) participated in the on-site experiential research program. 72.7% of the participants completed the survey, of which 93.8% stated that they strongly agree or agree with the following statements: “Did you feel like participating in research today was a valuable experience to you?” and “Did you feel like you were contributing to MS research?” 100% of the participants agreed or strongly agreed when asked “would you like to see more research activities taking place at these kinds of events?” Conclusions. This paper describes the logistics and challenges of conducting an experiential KT program, which proved to be rewarding for pwMS. The majority of pwMS attending the conference agreed to participate in the on-site experiential research program and an overwhelming majority of participants felt the experience was valuable.

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Exploring the frontiers of research co-production: the Integrated Knowledge Translation Research Network concept papers

Health Research Policy and Systems ◽

10.1186/s12961-019-0501-7 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 17 (1) ◽

Cited By ~ 2

Author(s):

Ian D. Graham ◽

Chris McCutcheon ◽

Anita Kothari

Keyword(s):

Knowledge Translation ◽

Integrated Knowledge Translation ◽

Research Network ◽

Future Research ◽

Academic Institutions ◽

Translation Research ◽

The Public ◽

Network Concept ◽

Research Findings ◽

Integrated Knowledge

AbstractResearch co-production is about doing research with those who use it. This approach to research has been receiving increasing attention from research funders, academic institutions, researchers and even the public as a means of optimising the relevance, usefulness, usability and use of research findings, which together, the argument goes, produces greater and more timely impact. The papers in this cross BMC journal collection raise issues about research co-production that, to date, have not been fully considered and suggest areas for future research for advancing the science and practice of research co-production. These papers address some gaps in the literature, make connections between subfields and provide varied perspectives from researchers and knowledge users.

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The Potential Role of AI in Anticipating Futures from a Design Process Perspective: From the Reflexive Description of “Design” to a Discussion of Influences by the Inclusion of AI in the Futures Research Process

World Futures Review ◽

10.1177/1946756719897402 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 12 (2) ◽

pp. 198-218

Author(s):

Marco Bevolo ◽

Filiberto Amati

Keyword(s):

Research Process ◽

Ongoing Research ◽

Futures Research ◽

Research Activities ◽

Professional Field ◽

Key Topics ◽

Potential Impact ◽

Process Perspective ◽

Desk Research

The key question behind this article is, How is AI impacting futures research, with particular focus on foresight and design futures? To address such question, this article reports on selected epistemological and methodological traits of design futures research, on the nature of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the potential impact of AI on the design futures domain, offering a conceptual model as theoretical junction between the domains of foresight and design. Key topics and themes addressed were selectively focused on foresight, design, design futures, weak signals, and their role in relationship with visioning and the image, AI, and a multidisciplinary discussion of how these fields relate to each other. This article is based on desk research and dialogue among the two authors, both profiled professional experts in their respective fields of design futures and AI, with a track of experience both in academic and applied research. Therefore, sources include a rich texture of bibliographic information, combined with selected input from ongoing research activities on AI and related trends, as performed in the professional field.

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Integrated knowledge translation to advance noncommunicable disease policy and practice in South Africa: application of the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, and Sustainment (EPIS) framework

Health Research Policy and Systems ◽

10.1186/s12961-021-00733-x ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 19 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Nasreen S. Jessani ◽

Anke Rohwer ◽

Bey-Marrie Schmidt ◽

Peter Delobelle

Keyword(s):

South Africa ◽

Knowledge Translation ◽

Integrated Knowledge Translation ◽

Noncommunicable Disease ◽

Noncommunicable Diseases ◽

Framework Analysis ◽

Policy And Practice ◽

Team Meetings ◽

Engagement Strategies ◽

Integrated Knowledge

Abstract Background In response to the “know–do” gap, several initiatives have been implemented to enhance evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM). These include individual training, organizational culture change management, and legislative changes. The importance of relationships and stakeholder engagement in EIDM has led to an evolution of models and approaches including integrated knowledge translation (IKT). IKT has emerged as a key strategy for ensuring that engagement is equitable, demand-driven, and responsive. As a result, the African-German Collaboration for Evidence-Based Healthcare and Public Health in Africa (CEBHA+) incorporated an IKT approach to influence noncommunicable diseases (NCD) policy and practice. We documented the phased process of developing, implementing, and monitoring the IKT approach in South Africa; and explored the appropriateness of using the exploration, preparation, implementation, and sustainment (EPIS) framework for this purpose. Methods We mapped the South Africa IKT approach onto the EPIS framework using a framework analysis approach. Notes of team meetings, stakeholder matrices, and engagement strategies were analysed and purposefully plotted against the four phases of the framework in order to populate the different constructs. We discussed and finalized the analysis in a series of online iterations until consensus was reached. Results The mapping exercise revealed an IKT approach that was much more iterative, dynamic, and engaging than initially thought. Several constructs (phase-agnostic) remained important and stable across EPIS phases: stable and supportive funding; committed and competent leadership; skilled and dedicated IKT champions; diverse and established personal networks; a conducive and enabling policy environment; and boundary-spanning intermediaries. Constructs such as “innovations” constantly evolved and adapted to the changing inner and outer contexts (phase-specific). Conclusions Using the EPIS framework to interrogate, reflect on, and document our IKT experiences proved extremely relevant and useful. Phase-agnostic constructs proved critical to ensure resilience and agility of NCD deliberations and policies in the face of highly dynamic and changing local contexts, particularly in view of the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Bridging IKT with a framework from implementation science helps to reflect on this process and can guide the development and planning of similar interventions and strategies.

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Improving research impact: lessons from the infrastructure engagement excellence standards

Evidence & Policy A Journal of Research Debate and Practice ◽

10.1332/174426421x16225315303512 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Kirsty Jones ◽

Sara Bice

Keyword(s):

Knowledge Translation ◽

Implementation Science ◽

Research Impact ◽

Integrated Knowledge Translation ◽

Practical Implementation ◽

Translation Theory ◽

Policy And Practice ◽

Research Implementation ◽

Research Findings ◽

Integrated Knowledge

Background: The gap between research and practical implementation remains a major challenge for policymakers. Research co-creation, involving researchers co-designing and co-producing research with industry, government and civil society, can support improved end user uptake and better research implementation.Aims and objectives: This Practice Paper introduces a process of research co-creation based in implementation science and integrated knowledge translation theories. It details the development of the Infrastructure Engagement Excellence Standards (IEE), a framework of 10 Standards defining the qualities of community engagement for optimal infrastructure planning and delivery. The paper details a research co-creation process applicable across a variety of industries and policy settings.Key conclusions: The Practice Paper introduces a theory-based method for research co-production and discusses strengths and weaknesses of the co-creation approach used to develop the IEE Standards. Implementation science and integrated knowledge translation theory offer important insights to support more successful research co-design and co-production. Research that incorporates these theories is better positioned to achieve implementation. The creation of the IEE Standards offers one helpful example of how researchers, policymakers and practitioners can begin to close the research-implementation gap. Key messages <ul><li>Research co-creation, using implementation science and integrated knowledge translation, supports uptake of research outcomes;</li> <li>Co-design creates ownership and understanding of research findings among participants;</li> <li>Ownership of research findings improves research use, to inform policy and practice;</li> <li>Involving end users in all research stages makes results more applicable and meets practice needs.</li></ul>

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Identifying competencies for integrated knowledge translation: a Delphi study

BMC Health Services Research ◽

10.1186/s12913-021-07107-7 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 21 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Euson Yeung ◽

Stephanie Scodras ◽

Nancy M. Salbach ◽

Anita Kothari ◽

Ian D. Graham

Keyword(s):

Health Care ◽

Knowledge Translation ◽

Delphi Study ◽

Core Competencies ◽

Research Process ◽

Integrated Knowledge Translation ◽

Cross Sectional ◽

Delphi Approach ◽

Wide Range ◽

Integrated Knowledge

Abstract Background Considerable progress has been made to advance the field of knowledge translation to address the knowledge-to-action gap in health care; however, there remains a growing concern that misalignments persist between research being conducted and the issues faced by knowledge users, such as clinicians and health policy makers, who make decisions in the health care context. Integrated knowledge translation (IKT) is a collaborative research model that has shown promise in addressing these concerns. It takes advantage of the unique and shared competencies amongst researchers and knowledge users to ensure relevance of the research process and its outcomes. To date, core competencies have already been identified to facilitate training in knowledge translation more generally but they have yet to be prioritized for IKT more specifically. The primary aim of this study was to recruit a group of researchers and knowledge users to identify and prioritize core competencies for researchers and knowledge users to engage with IKT. Methods We recruited health care knowledge users (KUs) and researchers with experience and knowledge of IKT for a quantitative, cross-sectional study. We employed a modified Delphi approach consisting of three e-survey rounds to establish consensus on competencies important to IKT for KUs and researchers based on mean rating of importance and agreement between participants. Results Nineteen (73%) of the initial 26 participants were researchers (response rate = 41% in the first round; retention in subsequent rounds > 80%). Participants identified a total of 46 competencies important for IKT (18 competencies for KUs, 28 competencies for researchers) under 3 broad domains. Technical research skills were deemed extremely important for researchers, while both groups require teamwork and knowledge translation skills. Conclusions This study provides important insight into distinct and overlapping IKT competencies for KUs and researchers. Future work could focus on how these can be further negotiated and contextualized for a wide range of IKT contexts, projects and teams. Greater attention could also be paid to establishing competencies of the entire team to support the research co-production process.

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