Area of Science:

• Knowledge Translation (KT) research
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) services
• Public health policy

Context:

• Many Knowledge Translation (KT) networks exist to improve research-based practices, but empirical data on their function is limited.
• The Réseau national d’expertise en trouble du spectre de l’autisme (RNETSA) is a national network established by a ministerial initiative.
• RNETSA aims to advance autism practices and services across education, early childhood, and health sectors.

Purpose:

• To analyze the governance structure of RNETSA.
• To evaluate the knowledge translation (KT) strategy of RNETSA.
• To assess the legitimacy of RNETSA within the autism ecosystem.

Summary:

• A case study combining literature review and interviews identified key components of RNETSA's governance (common needs, formal bodies, resource allocation) and KT strategy (dissemination, collaboration, participation).
• The study highlights elements that can strengthen the network's legitimacy and align it with its objectives.
• RNETSA has shown a strong capacity to establish legitimacy and influence public policy in autism.

Impact:

• Provides empirical insights into the functioning of KT networks.
• Offers a framework for strengthening the legitimacy and effectiveness of autism-focused networks.
• Suggests the need for evaluating KT activities to fully understand their impact on autism services and policy.