Community-derived research dissemination strategies in an Inuit community

To determine how residents of the Inuit community of Nain, Nunatsiavut, Canada would like research results disseminated to their community.

Qualitative study using focus groups and key informant interviews.

As part of a larger study on food safety, one focus group was conducted with hunters (n=7) and a second with members of the general community (n=7) to determine research dissemination strategies previously used in the community, and to obtain recommendations for effective and appropriate strategies for future use. One-on-one key informant interviews were also conducted with Nain community members (n=5) selected for their insights on the study themes. Informants included a teacher, a nurse, a community elder, and one official from each of the Nain and Nunatsiavut governments. Data from focus groups and key informant interviews were combined and analysed using thematic analysis.

Open houses were identified as the preferred method to present research results to the community. Presentation methods should be interactive, visual and presented in both English and Inuktitut. Research dissemination efforts should be timely and involve both the researcher and a local official or community member to give the results additional validity and relevance. If possible, involving youth in the presentations will increase the impact of the message.

Preferred information dissemination techniques in this Inuit community echo successful techniques from research conducted in Aboriginal communities. Future knowledge translation efforts in Inuit communities should consider involving youth in presentations due to their influential nature within the community.