Knowledge Translation: Bridging Science, Policy, and Practice in Inclusive Education
How do we apply research evidence? Knowledge translation (KT) is a bridge between research, policy, and practice in an effort to strengthen public service sectors and improve outcomes. Essentially, KT is an interactive process involving exchanges between researchers who create new knowledge and those who use it. The focus of this course will be on the theory and application of knowledge translation with the goal of promoting evidence-based policy, practice, and research utilization. Using data generated from Professor Njelesani's research study on inclusive education in Zambia, students will develop culturally and contextually appropriate KT products (e.g., policy briefs, scientific abstracts and posters, website content, infographics, visual art, digital storytelling, etc.) based on the needs of multiple stakeholders (e.g., education and disability policymakers, researchers, educators, disabled persons' organizations, and persons with disabilities) to disseminate knowledge and improve research uptake. Note: Pending feasible international travel conditions, this course will include a seminar in Zambia.