COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH, CAPACITY BUILDING AND KNOWLEDGE TRANSLATION DEVELOPMENT FOR RESEARCH ON ADVERSE BIRTH OUTCOMES AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The DoMiNO (Data mining & Neonatal outcomes) project explores the relationship between the environment and adverse birth outcomes. The project applies Integrated Knowledge Translation; a collaborative approach that builds on the participation, expertise and perspectives of interdisciplinary researchers, clinicians and knowledge-users, to ground and enhance the depth and breadth of research and to facilitate knowledge translation. Understanding the components that impact team building processes can contribute to supporting collaborative efforts. Based on the DoMiNO project we present major components that contributed to building team capacity for knowledge creation and the development of a knowledge translation plan. We use this project's Integrated Knowledge Translation process as a case study in a qualitative evaluation of the ongoing research collaboration (experience and learnings) following team engagement in the research process (e.g., meetings, informal interactions). Participants included all 24 DoMiNO team members. Data were collected through interviews, focus groups, surveys and participant observations, all adding to the cumulative understanding of the collaborative research process and the knowledge translation plan evolution. All data were coded and analyzed using thematic analysis procedures. Findings highlight the interrelated components of building capacity to support the research progress, co-production and knowledge translation plan development. These components include commitment, work etiquette, balancing perspectives, power and ownership, as well as communication, transparency, learning/ sharing knowledge and alignment. These contribute to building relationships, trust and capacity. Once those were established and research deliverables were clearer, the main messages and attainable knowledge translation goals were identified. The knowledge translation Several components contribute to capacity building and the development of the KT plan. In this complex context, it is an ongoing iterative process that evolves through time, as the team works and builds capacity. Identifying and supporting the essential components of team development could optimize capacity building. plan was then articulated to identify potential users, audiences, and strategies. Several components contribute to capacity building and the development of the KT plan. In this complex context, it is an ongoing iterative process that evolves through time, as the team works and builds capacity. Identifying and supporting the essential components of team development could optimize capacity building.