Inspired by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) definition, uOttawa defines Knowledge mobilization (KMb) as:
“The reciprocal and complementary flow and uptake of research and knowledge between researchers, knowledge holders/keepers, knowledge brokers, and knowledge users — both within and beyond academia — in such a way that may benefit users and create or support positive and equitable societal change locally, nationally, and/or internationally.”
Knowledge mobilization leverages scientific evidence to inform and transform policy and practice, aiming to bridge the gap between research and its practical application. Note that currently, it can take 17 years for just 14 percent of research evidence to be applied in clinical practice.
At the University of Ottawa, we strive to bridge this gap by helping researchers to build knowledge mobilization strategies into their projects. This involves disseminating their findings in non-traditional ways, such as:
- Documents: case studies, newsletters, education material, fact sheets, FAQs, handbooks, journal article, magazine articles, newspaper articles, press releases, promotional materials, reference lists, success stories, reports, briefing notes, knowledge syntheses, books, policy papers
- Artistic representations/performances: films, plays, exhibits, festivals
- Tools: toolkits, manuals, guidelines, databases
- Media: blogs, e-newsletters, podcasts, PowerPoint presentations, videos, websites, wikis, radio interviews, TV interviews
- Training: workshops, webinars, courses, lunch and learns
- Knowledge exchange: meetings, conferences, debates, forums, panels, press conferences, presentations, symposiums
- Co-Creation: interactive small groups, educational outreach, mass media campaigns, communities of practice, networks, chat rooms, social media, discussion boards
Remember that when it comes to knowledge mobilization, your strategy should include multiple approaches and activities to reach your audience and actively engage them. Use plain language, keep your messages authentic and think big!
