9 Introduction to Knowledge Management and Communications | Models and Frameworks

There are various models, frameworks and ways of understanding the process of knowledge sharing. In this section, we will outline a few of the more commonly used models.

Integrated vs. end-of-grant knowledge mobilization

Knowledge mobilization can happen anytime before, during or after a research project; however, many knowledge mobilization professionals use the classification proposed by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, which proposes two distinct forms of knowledge mobilization: integrated and end-of-grant2.

person on a laptop in a wheelchairIn end-of-grant knowledge mobilization, the focus is on sharing the results of a research project after they are collected – often after a project is complete. Thus, end-of-grant knowledge mobilization is more focused on one-way dissemination of knowledge from the research community to potential end users. End-of-grant knowledge mobilization can include a variety of methods to disseminate research – conferences, workshops, meetings, written or online products, documents or websites, social media, commercialization, patents, licenses, and many more as appropriate to the audience. In Module 3, you’ll dive deeper into developing a communications strategy, and will learn more about specific methods in various other modules.

Integrated knowledge mobilization focuses on engagement with end users throughout the research process. End users may be engaged in project planning, development of research questions and methods, collection of data, dissemination of results, and evaluation of impacts. Integrated knowledge mobilization may be more time-consuming and complex than end-of-grant knowledge mobilization, due to additional inputs and time required for consultation and engagement, but is widely regarded as more likely to lead to uptake and impact of research, as the research and dissemination will include end user input and may thus be more relevant, applicable and trusted. You’ll learn more about integrated knowledge mobilization and community engagement in Module 5.

Tip: When engaging with stakeholders as part of an integrated knowledge mobilization strategy, consideration needs to given to how you can ethically and respectfully engage with these stakeholders or communities – ensuring that engagement yields reciprocal benefits, allowing time to build trust, being aware and working to address power imbalances, and recognizing and respecting various forms of knowledge. This is especially important when working with communities that have been historically disadvantaged or have not benefited from research conducted on and within the community in the past, such as Indigenous communities. If this is you, we recommend reading “The Four R’s – Respect, Relevance, Reciprocity, Responsibility”. Later modules focus on sharing data with Indigenous communities and key considerations for community engagement.

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