Knowledge Translation

Knowledge translation (KT) is an active process that includes the synthesis, dissemination, exchange and implementation of knowledge. KT aims to bridge the gap between knowledge producers and knowledge users with the goal of improving health, providing more effective health services, and strengthening the healthcare system. KT can occur at different stages of the research lifecycle and includes both integrated and end-of-grant approaches. This page provides an overview of KT and offers guidance for planning KT activities early in the research process. 

• End-of-grant KT refers to activities that take place once study findings are available, including journal publications, conference presentations, infographics, research briefs, public-facing commentaries or media pieces. Detailed resources on preparing outputs can be found on the Share your Research Findings page. 
• Integrated KT involves collaboration with knowledge users throughout the research process. Knowledge users may include clinicians, patients, caregivers, policymakers, community partners, and others who may use the research. IKT activities may include co-identifying priorities, co-developing research questions, co-interpreting findings, co-creating outputs, ongoing communication during and after the project. 

Planning KT Activities 

Effective KT planning involves considering: 

• Goals: What change do you hope to support? 
• Audiences: Who might use or benefit from your findings? 
• Strategies: What KT approaches or outputs will help support use? 
• Timing: When are KT activities most effective? 
• Feasibility: What resources, skills, or partnerships are needed? 

Resources

These resources introduce core knowledge translation concepts and support planning KT activities, including integrated and end‑of‑grant approaches, collaboration with knowledge users, and practical strategies for applying KT throughout the research lifecycle.

• Presentation: Knowledge Translation Planning by Advina Kamaric and Casey Irvin, Research Knowledge & Skill Builder [Video | Slides] 
• Presentation: Knowledge Translation Parts I & II by Erin Beaulieu and Casey Irvin, Research Knowledge & Skill Builder [Part 1: Video | Slides; Part 2: Video | Slides] 
• Presentation: Integrated knowledge translation with a health system partner by Dr. Melissa Pirrie [Slides | Video] 
• External resource:  Guide to Knowledge Translation Planning at CIHR: Integrated and End-of-Grant Approaches – CIHR 
• External resource:  A Guide to Researcher and Knowledge-User Collaboration in Health Research – CIHR 
• External resource:  Knowledge Translation Planning Template – Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto 
• Learning modules: Knowledge Translation – SickKids Academy Online  

Theories, Models, Frameworks

Theories, models, and frameworks can guide KT planning, implementation, and evaluation. They help clarify assumptions, identify potential barriers, and support the design of KT strategies. One commonly used framework in health research is the Knowledge‑to‑Action (K2A) framework, which provides a practical structure for moving research evidence into practice by linking knowledge creation with action and implementation.

• External resource: How to Choose a KT Theory, Model or Framework – Centre for Healthcare Innovation, University of Manitoba 
• Presentation: Knowledge to Action Cycle: In Action by Claire Bodkin, Erin Beaulieu, Fiona Kouyoumdjian, Marina Sadik – Large Research Group Meeting [Video | Slides] 
• External resource: Knowledge-to-Action (Knowledge Translation in Health Care: Moving from Evidence to Practice, Section 3, CIHR) 
• Journal article: Straus, S. E., Tetroe, J., & Graham, I. (2009). Defining knowledge translation. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 181(3–4), 165–168.