Evidence for improving communication and participation: evaluation of Evidence Bulletin knowledge transfer

Article type
Authors
Dilkes H, Hill S, Ryan R
Abstract
Background: Health Knowledge Network is a knowledge transfer service that aims to make information contained in systematic reviews of interventions on communication and participation comprehensible and accessible to a broad audience. Lavis (2006) proposes a framework for knowledge transfer that encompasses push efforts that link research producers with research users. Two small earlier evaluations by the Review Group had identified the importance of producing summaries of systematic reviews that are comprehensible and accessible. Methodological research was undertaken to develop a standard way to report content, context and findings of Cochrane reviews of communication and participation. Objectives: To evaluate the comprehensibility, accessibility and reach of the Health Knowledge Network Evidence Bulletin service. Methods: Based on iterative evaluations of previous bulletin services, a revised and expanded Evidence Bulletin was developed. It was designed to present three layers of information: a cover page outlining the focus and key findings of the review; two to four pages presenting content of the review and contextualising the results; and two to four pages of standardised technical information extracted from the review. Network functions comprised: sending Evidence Bulletins to targeted audiences rather than disseminating ad hoc; recruitment strategies for network membership focusing on decision makers to involve diverse audiences including consumer groups, healthcare professionals and policy makers; recruiting key knowledge brokers and encouraging them to forward bulletins to other individuals and organisations; and developing a website for housing bulletins. Network members undertook an email questionnaire to evaluate the Evidence Bulletin service. Results: Results of the evaluation of the Evidence Bulletin service will be presented focusing on: comprehensibility of bulletins in terms of content and layout; accessibility and trustworthiness of bulletins; and audience or reach of the bulletin service. Conclusions: Utilising Lavis’ framework, the Network developed Evidence Bulletins, identified interested users and actively disseminated bulletins to these users. Findings from the evaluation will contribute to knowledge about how push efforts for knowledge transfer can improve awareness of and access to evidence in the communication and participation sphere.