Knowledge Translation

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What is
Knowledge Translation?

Knowledge translation (or KT for short) is the process of taking scientific research and turning it into practical information that can be used and understood by everyone. This information should be used to provide better health, health services and products, and strengthen our healthcare system (Straus, Tetroe, and Graham 2009; Government of Canada and Canadian Institutes of Health Research 2012).

There are many stages of KT. We have outlined
the four key stages in the diagram below.

Creation

Knowledge is created from primary sources (e.g. randomized

controlled trials)

Distillation

Primary studies / sources are summarized to create secondary sources (e.g., systematic reviews)

Dissemination

Presenting both primary and secondary sources as conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications

Translation

Takes information and research findings and making them understandable and usable for a wider audience

Why is Knowledge
Translation important?

KT is important for advancing research and practice, for example, by sharing information about new discoveries, research gaps and strategies to improve care. Below we have listed some of the many benefits of KT.

Implementing evidence-based practices

Maximizing research impact

Improving health outcomes for patients

Enhancing decision-making

Involving knowledge users to contribute and implement findings

Enhancing collaborations in multidisciplinary teams

KT is a central piece of the work that we do at TRANSCENDENT. Through this research program, we aim to not only lead the way in concussion research but also work alongside key knowledge users to develop outputs that share information about our research with those who can use it, including, but not limited to, healthcare professionals, parents, coaches, teachers, and caregivers.

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At TRANSCENDENT, our Knowledge Translation (KT) initiatives are guided by the Knowledge to Action (KTA) Framework. This dynamic, iterative model bridges research and real-world application, ensuring that knowledge is both relevant and actionable. The framework emphasizes engaging end-users—such as our community advisory committee members—who provide valuable insights to shape research and implementation.

The Knowledge to
Action Framework

While the KTA framework is often depicted as a cycle, its phases can be adapted based on project needs. This flexible approach helps us translate concussion research into meaningful, impactful care.