Evaluation of a health systems knowledge translation network for Africa (KTNET): a study protocol
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Date
2014
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Implementation Science
Abstract
Despite the increasing investment in health-related research in Sub-Saharan Africa, a large gulf remains
between what is known and what is practiced in health systems. Knowledge translation programs aim to ensure
that a wide range of stakeholders are aware of and use research evidence to inform their health and health-care
decision-making. The purpose of this study is to provide insight into the impacts on capacity building for knowledge
translation and knowledge translation activities by a coalition of eight research groups in Africa.
Methods/design: We will use a mixed methods approach. Key informant interviews and document reviews will be
employed to evaluate changes in knowledge translation capacity and to evaluate the effects of knowledge translation
on potential users of research. Quarterly teleconferences will be done to evaluate the impacts of knowledge translation
activities on users of research. Using website tracking, we will be able to explore the influence of knowledge translation
networking and dynamics of the knowledge translation network.
Discussion: We have adopted the dynamic knowledge transfer model and the Landry framework to come up with a
framework for this study so as to explore the capacity of producers and users of research to generate, disseminate, and
use research findings, while highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. This information will be useful for guiding
implementers that seek to build capacity on knowledge translation so as to promote the utilization of research findings
for informing programs, practice, and policy.
Description
Keywords
Health systems, Knowledge translation, Evidence-based practice, Africa
Citation
Ekirapa-Kiracho et al.: Evaluation of a health systems knowledge translation network for Africa (KTNET): a study protocol. Implementation Science 2014 9:170. doi:10.1186/s13012-014-0170-4