We are pleased to announce that the Canadian Water Network (CWN) has developed a Knowledge Mobilization (KM) training program, and will be offering that program to Water Institute members in a 1-day workshop.
The workshop will be held on May 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Waterloo main campus, and will consist of four training modules which are detailed below.
As space is limited, please confirm your participation with Mary Anne Hardy as-soon-as-possible.
Researchers and decision makers can exchange knowledge and engage with one another throughout the course of a research project or program to improve the relevance, uptake and application of research knowledge. This process is called
knowledge mobilization, and it is important because it leads to the uptake of targeted research to inform practice or policy decisions, and subsequently enables this knowledge to impact our environment, economy or social and public health conditions. (CWN, 2016)
Training modules
1) Knowledge Mobilization 101
In this training module, participants will learn about knowledge mobilization: what it is, why it’s needed, and the current evidence on effective knowledge mobilization strategies. Topics include:
- Breaking down the jargon: knowledge mobilization terminology in Canada
- The importance of knowledge mobilization and how it can help your research have impact
- What are the elements of effective knowledge mobilization, and what are the barriers?
2) Knowledge Mobilization and Research
An effective knowledge mobilization plan is based on strong involvement from end users throughout the course of a project. This training module includes best practices and exercises focusing on:
- How to develop a strong knowledge mobilization plan
- Effective strategies to engage end users in research and facilitate a mutually beneficial partnership
3) Communicating in Plain Language
This training module focuses on hands-on practical tips and exercises to help participants communicate with non-academics. Numerous exercises focus on:
- How to interpret research and identify the key applicable messages for end users
- How to write in plain language to appeal to a non-academic audience
- Choosing an effective communication mechanism, including an overview of social media strategies
4) Evaluating Research Impact
It is important to document how mobilizing knowledge has informed decisions and to understand the subsequent impact of these decisions. This module focuses on strategies for evaluation, including:
- The importance of evaluating research impact
- Methods for evaluating research outputs (products) and outcomes (changes in knowledge, behaviour, policy, and practice)
- Exercises to develop a logic model and evaluation plan for research