KT is Knowledge Translation

In practical terms, KT describes the process of changing what we do to match what we know.

The DCRC places a strong emphasis on Knowledge Translation (KT). Specifically, translating dementia research into practice. The DCRC engages in KT activities within each hub and across the DCRC as a whole.

Our focus is on dementia research related to KT and assisting other researchers to progress dementia specific projects toward KT outcomes such as implementing evidence and practice-based knowledge into everyday care for people with dementia.

Click here to access the ‘Knowledge Translation in Dementia Research’ online learning modules.

These four modules have been developed to support dementia researchers to improve their understanding of KT and effectively write a KT plan for grant applications.

There are many definitions and descriptions of Knowledge Translation (KT). According to the Canadian Institute for Health Research, KT is defined as ‘a dynamic and iterative process that includes the synthesis, dissemination, exchange and ethically sound application of knowledge to improve health, provide more effective health services and products, and strengthen the health care system’ (Straus, Tetroe & Graham, 2009, p165).

There are many barriers to translating and implementing research evidence into practice. To promote and facilitate the uptake of evidence into practice, a number of KT frameworks have been developed.

Some commonly used frameworks in the fields of dementia and ageing include:

The Knowledge to Action Framework
Graham, I. D., Logan, J., Harrison, M. B., Straus, S. E., Tetroe, J., Caswell, W., & Robinson, N. (2006). Lost in knowledge translation: time for a map?. Journal of continuing education in the health professions, 26(1), 13-24

The World Health Organisation KT Framework
Ellen, M. E., Panisset, U., de Carvalho, I. A., Goodwin, J., & Beard, J. (2017). A knowledge translation framework on ageing and health. Health Policy, 121(3), 282-291.

Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (PARiHS)
Kitson, A. L., Rycroft-Malone, J., Harvey, G., McCormack, B., Seers, K., & Titchen, A. (2008). Evaluating the successful implementation of evidence into practice using the PARiHS framework: theoretical and practical challenges. Implementation science, 3(1), 1.

Dementia Training Australia (DTA) Knowledge Translation Framework
The DTA approach to workforce training involves a learning pathway which both supports, and is supported by, a knowledge translation framework.

The aim of research is to generate new knowledge that will add to the body of research addressing a specific problem. Before this evidence can be implemented into practice, the evidence must be synthesised with other research findings. This requires researchers to disseminate their finding via active and passive means.

– Passive dissemination includes publication in a peer reviewed journal or scientific conference.
– Active dissemination occurs when evidence is presented in a way that is tailored to a specific audience such as clinicians.

Find out more about the knowledge generated from DCRC Research projects.

After knowledge synthesis has occurred, the strength of evidence can be determined. When strong evidence has been created, Knowledge Tools and/or Products can be developed. Examples of knowledge Tools and Products include guidelines, education resources or care pathways.

The aim of such tools and products are to move knowledge generated by researchers (knowledge creators) to intended end-users of knowledge (knowledge receivers e.g. health professionals).

Discover some of DCRC’s Knowledge Tools & Products or go straight to the Dementia Outcomes Measurement Suite (DOMS) for validated assessment tools.

: Learning from Research: Strength of the Evidence (Epilepsy Foundation)

Knowledge implementation is defined as ‘The use of strategies to adopt and integrate evidence-based interventions and change practice within specific settings’ (Dr Sharon Straus, What is End of Grant Knowledge Translation?).

Seven recipients of the ‘DCRC Implementing Research Evidence into Practice Grants 2020’ will provide examples of dementia knowledge implementation projects in 2021.

For a Knowledge Translation Glossary, click here.