LMP 2348 Knowledge Translation & the Community – Translational Research Program (TRP)

LMP 2348: Knowledge Translation & the Community

Type: Module

Credit: 0.25 FCE

Overview

This is a module and counts as 0.25 FCE.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this module students will be able to:

Understand varying knowledge translation approaches/frameworks/tools and strategies to be tailored to specific stakeholders and/or knowledge users.
Understand the different phases of the knowledge translation process and the role of knowledge brokers.
Exhibit the ability to collaborate with different stakeholders and/or knowledge users on knowledge translation projects/tools and/or the development of knowledge translation strategies
Exhibit initiative, responsibility, and accountability for a knowledge translation/knowledge tool-related project in collaboration with stakeholders/knowledge users.
Display evidence of networking and collaborative strategies (including effective team building and community interaction).

At the end of the module, students will have gained insight into a range of knowledge translation approaches/frameworks/tools and implemented a knowledge translation approach/strategy in a community setting/with knowledge users that addresses a specific gap. They will be expected to understand how knowledge translation and brokerage can lead to new and better ways of thinking about and improving health care.

Description

Knowledge translation (KT) is defined “as a dynamic and iterative process that includes synthesis, dissemination, exchange and ethically-sound application of knowledge to improve the health of Canadians, provide more effective health services and products and strengthen the health care system” (CIHR 2000, 2010).“This process takes place within a complex system of interactions between researchers and knowledge users which may vary in intensity, complexity and level of engagement depending on the nature of the research and the findings as well as the needs of the particular knowledge user” (Graham, 2010). Designed as an experiential learning opportunity, this module is intended to allow students to investigate and to apply KT concepts in small collaborative groups with specified community partners/knowledge users. Deliverables shall demonstrate a focus on integrative reflective learning and result in outcomes that demonstrate clear, specific, and individual learning objectives for each participant and tangible benefits or contributions to ‘translation’.

Enrolment

Students are required to complete eight modules (0.25 FCE each) spread out within 2 years of study. Students may enroll in modular courses using ACORN. The modular schedule will be emailed to students prior to the start of each semester. Modules offered outside of the program are also permitted such as ones offered by the Institute of Medical Science (IMS).

Teaching team

Dr. Christopher A. Klinger

Christopher is a Research Scientist with Pallium Canada and chairs the National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly’s End-of-Life Issues Theme Team, a knowledge transfer network dedicated to enhancing the care of older adults in Canada and abroad. He also chairs the Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada’s Research and Knowledge Translation Committee, a group of national stakeholder organizations concerned about quality end-of-life care.

Raza Mirza

Raza is an enthusiastic researcher with expertise that spans medical decision-making, ethics, research methods, socio-behavioral determinants of health in persons aging with a chronic illness, and factors influencing late-life social, mental, and physical well-being. He is currently a Senior Research Associate at U of T’s Institute for Life Course and Aging, the Network Manager for the National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly, and the Chair of the Central Ontario Age-Friendly Network. An expert in his field, he has been invited to speak at national and international gerontology and geriatrics conferences and has been asked to consult with various levels of government on diverse issues related to an aging population.