Social Work - Theses
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ItemShared understanding of knowledge translation in a domestic violence research network( 2021)Background: Despite significant growth in knowledge translation research, there remains a gap in our understanding of the connection between knowledge translation, domestic violence research and research networks. Knowledge translation is crucial as it creates the connection between those that produce the research and those that use the research. However, despite efforts, there is still a disconnect between researchers, practitioners and policymakers, suggesting a need to further explore this critical area of research. One framework, Integrated Knowledge Translation, offers the potential to bridge these gaps. Aims: Given the paucity of existing literature, this study explored the shared understanding of knowledge translation of a domestic violence research network. The study answered the following questions: What is the shared understanding of knowledge translation and activity in a domestic violence research network? How is a shared understanding of knowledge translation developed in a domestic violence research network? Method: The study utilised several methodological approaches, including participatory action research and realist research. The three phases of data collection included an online scoping survey; a realist informed systematic review and deliberative dialogue. Results: The scoping survey completed by 49/65 researchers found a focus on practitioners when sharing results from research with considerable gaps that included policymakers and survivors. A systematic literature review of 50 studies using a realist lens identified mechanisms of change that support knowledge translation. The synthesis of the included studies identified five potential program theories. A deliberative dialogue explored these mechanisms further and identified four key actions 1) agreement on a knowledge translation approach; 2) active promotion of dedicated leadership within an authorising environment; 3) development of sustainable partnerships through capacity building and collaboration particularly with survivors; and 4) employment of multiple strategies applying different kinds of evidence for diverse purposes and emerging populations. Conclusion: This study adds to our understanding of the meaning of shared knowledge translation by exploring the knowledge translation activity of a research network. Moreover, the mechanisms of change identified will support the knowledge translation of future research networks. The use of the deliberative dialogue has uncovered specific factors required for the successful knowledge translation of domestic violence research. These factors have been added to the Integrated Knowledge Translation capacity framework to enhance its application for domestic violence research. Future research could explore these individual, professional organisational and network factors further by evaluating them in practice. Forthcoming research could also explore these factors with input from survivors.