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Experiences on the implementation and maintenance of the Canadian Disability Participation Project: A mixed-methods
Femke Hoekstra1,2,3, Alanna Shwed3,4, Sarah Lawrason3,4
1Department of Medicine, Division of Social Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Plos One
|November 13, 2025
Summary
Establishing a multidisciplinary network like the Canadian Disability Participation Project (CDPP) improves disability research application. Sustaining such networks requires strong leadership and resources for long-term success.
Area of Science:
- Disability Studies
- Health Services Research
- Knowledge Translation
Background:
- Multidisciplinary networks are crucial for advancing disability research.
- Effective implementation and maintenance of these networks are vital for translating research into practice and policy.
- The Canadian Disability Participation Project (CDPP) serves as a case study for network development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the longitudinal implementation of the CDPP network.
- To explore member experiences and reflections on network implementation and maintenance.
- To identify factors influencing the success of research partnerships within the CDPP.
Main Methods:
- Mixed-methods approach combining longitudinal survey data (2018, 2019, 2021) and qualitative interviews (2021/2022).
- Survey data analyzed using descriptive statistics to assess network functioning and satisfaction.
- Interview data analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to explore member experiences.
Main Results:
- Members reported satisfaction with network functioning and implementation processes.
- Over 70% found it easy to collaborate within the network across survey years.
- Key themes included strong leadership, challenges in network-wide connection, and principles for successful partnerships.
Conclusions:
- Building and sustaining large research networks is complex and demands consistent leadership.
- Adequate human resources and ongoing leadership are essential for long-term network viability.
- Lessons learned offer insights into capacity building for research partnerships and disability research translation.
