What is Knowledge Transfer?
Imagine two mountains. On one mountain are the researchers who generate a staggering amount of research results every year. On the other mountain are the decision makers - policy-makers, administrators, health care providers, patients, and consumers.
There is a tremendous difference between the two and between what we know from research and what we do in health care. So, how can we bridge the gap between the two mountains so that research results can effectively inform decision making in healthcare?
Knowledge transfer (KT) is only one term among many that refers to the deliberate process of information exchange between producers and potential users of research that supports evidence-informed decision making and decision-informed research, ultimately for the betterment of peoples' lives.
Related terms include: knowledge translation, research transfer, research utilization, knowledge mobilization, and knowledge management. The RTNA understands KT to mean all of these things.
About the RTNA
The Health Research Transfer Network of Alberta (RTNA) is a province-wide network that undertakes activities to strengthen the flow of knowledge between researchers, practitioners, patients, and policy makers. This transfer of knowledge supports informed research, policies, and practices that lead to better health outcomes for Albertans.
The RTNA aims to:
- Build Capacity of health professionals and researchers to engage in knowledge transfer
- Foster partnerships and mentorships to contribute to knowledge transfer
- Exchange knowledge and expertise on knowledge transfer with provincial and national organizations
- Create a network of people interested and engaged in knowledge transfer
Governance
The RTNA was established in 2002, and is guided by a number of multi-stakeholder advisory committees. These include:
- The Knowledge Transfer Initiatives Advisory Committee
- The Water Cooler Working Group
- The RTNA Conference Planning Committee
If you would like to learn more about our governance, or volunteer for one of our committees, please contact Donna Angus, Manager, Knowledge Transfer Initiatives.
The RTNA is administered by Alberta Innovates – Health Solutions and is funded by the Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research Endowment Fund.