Exploring conceptualizations of knowledge translation, transfer and exchange across public health in one UK region: a qualitative mapping study.
OBJECTIVE
Knowledge translation (KT) is becoming common vocabulary, but as a concept it is not clearly defined. Many related terms exist; these are often used interchangeably and given multiple interpretations. While there is a growing body of literature exploring these concepts, using it to inform public health practice, strategy, research and education is challenging given the range of sources and need for local 'contextual fit'. This study explores how various public health stakeholders make sense of, and experience, KT and related concepts.


METHODS
A qualitative mapping study using a phenomenographic approach.


METHODS
Thirty-four academics, students and practitioners working in public health across the north east of England participated in six focus groups and five one-to-one interviews. Discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using a thematic framework approach. The framework drew on findings from reviews of the existing literature, whilst allowing unanticipated issues to emerge.


RESULTS
Three main themes were identified from the stakeholder discussions:


CONCLUSIONS
This study has enabled further development of theoretical understandings of the KT discourses at play in public health, and identified the ways in which these may be bound by discipline and context. Ironically, the findings suggest that terms such as knowledge translation, transfer and exchange are seen as themselves requiring translation, or at least debate and discussion.
Centre for Public Policy and Health (CPPH), School of Medicine, Pharmacy and Health, Durham University, Stockton-on-Tees TS17 6BH, UK. Electronic address: shelina.visram@durham.ac.uk.
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Visram
Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE7 7XA, UK.
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Goodall
Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE7 7XA, UK.
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Steven
D004739:England; D005178:Faculty; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D019359:Knowledge; D011634:Public Health; D015980:Public Health Practice; D036301:Qualitative Research; D040443:Students, Public Health; D013637:Tape Recording; D009626:Terminology as Topic; D057170:Translational Research, Biomedical
Evidence-based practice; Knowledge exchange; Knowledge transfer; Knowledge translation; Qualitative research