Strengthening population health interventions: developing the CollaboraKTion Framework for Community-Based Knowledge...

Area of Science:

• Community-based participatory research
• Knowledge translation (KT) theory and practice
• Population health improvement strategies

Background:

• Existing knowledge translation (KT) research predominantly focuses on clinical settings, lacking guidance for community-based applications.
• This study addresses the gap by detailing the empirically-informed CollaboraKTion framework for community-based KT.
• Builds upon previous research in community-based KT to offer practical theoretical guidance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the theory-driven and empirically-informed CollaboraKTion framework for community-based knowledge translation (KT).
• To provide guidance for developing, implementing, and evaluating contextually relevant, evidence-informed initiatives in community settings.
• To address gaps in the literature concerning KT in non-clinical, community-based environments.

Main Methods:

• Employed a case study design with ethnographic methods for in-depth understanding of community-based KT processes.
• Utilized extensive field notes from observations and interactions, alongside literature from participatory research and KT.
• Applied Kitson and colleagues' co-KT framework as a coding structure to analyze empirical data and inform the CollaboraKTion framework.

Main Results:

• Community-based KT is an iterative process involving five key stages: contacting/connecting, deepening understanding, adapting/applying knowledge, supporting action, and transitioning/embedding.
• Identified key elements within these processes, such as building on existing knowledge and establishing partnerships.
• Results suggest a shift in focus for community KT researchers from intervention uptake to collaboratively modifying contextual health determinants.

Conclusions:

• The CollaboraKTion framework offers a guide for evidence-informed initiatives to improve population health in community settings.
• Provides a foundation for future research and practice in the emergent field of community-based knowledge translation.
• Facilitates the development, implementation, and evaluation of contextually relevant KT initiatives.