Knowledge Translation & Implementation

Module Title: Knowledge Translation & Implementation 
ECTS: 10

Module Coordinators:
Dr Carlos Bruen, Assistant Professor in Health Policy and Management

Professor Allison Metz, Professor of Practice at the School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Module Description:
The translation and implementation of knowledge is critical to improving health and social care systems, policies and services. While there are numerous definitions, knowledge translation has been defined by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research “as a dynamic and iterative process that includes synthesis, dissemination, exchange and ethically-sound application of knowledge to improve [health]”. Despite the terms being frequently used interchangeably, knowledge translation does not address how to implement knowledge and evidence. Implementation science addresses this gap through its scientific study and focus on the systematic uptake and implementation of research evidence and other evidence-based practice in real-world contexts.   

This module brings together knowledge translation and implementation science to advance understanding and application of these related fields. 

Module Objectives:
Delivered as composite components, the first part will:

• Introduce students to the principles, concepts and frameworks of knowledge translation. 
• Apply this to generate insights into current knowledge translation practices and case studies. 

The second part of the module will then proceed to:

• Introduce students to the core elements of implementation science, both theory and practice. 
• Expose students to a number of different implementation frameworks and to real life case studies of implementation in health and social services. 

Together, these composite elements will facilitate an appreciation of the ties between knowledge translation and implementation, and their role in improving the quality and effectiveness of health and social care systems, policies and services.

Module learning outcomes:
On successful completion of the module students should be able to:  

• Describe key concepts, frameworks and activities of knowledge translation; 
• Explain the importance of different forms of evidence and knowledge that informs decision-making and practice; 
• Identify areas of need for change where evidence can improve individual, organisational or systems outcomes, and the knowledge translation activities and strategies that can support this; 
• Identify and describe in detail the core elements of implementation science; 
• Explain how the implementation process will be rolled out in a health or social care setting; 
• Apply implementation drivers and stages and implementation outcomes to a student’s own case study. 
• Explain the ties between knowledge translation and implementation, and their role in improving the quality and effectiveness of health and social care systems, policies and services.