Evaluating an engaged scholarship approach to improve health promotion within the education system

Abstract

Engaged scholarship offers a collaborative approach to bridge the gap between theory and practice by integrating research and practical knowledge. This study used a case–study approach to evaluate the facilitative and obstructive factors influencing engaged scholarship to support health promotion practice within the education system. Individuals who worked closely with the engaged scholar for at least 3 months agreed to participate in an individual interview (n = 6). Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Themes emerged related to conditions (relationships and trust; organizational capacity) and actions (shared ownership and engagement; communication and role clarity) that influenced the implementation of engaged scholarship. The results of this study build on existing literature, especially by providing in-depth examples of conditions and actions that can strengthen partnerships between researchers and public policy stakeholders.