Exploring the synergies between focused ethnography and integrated knowledge translation

Jennifer Baumbusch,Sandra B Lauck,Davina Banner,Tamar O’Shea,Leslie Achtem,Sarah Wu

doi:10.1186/s12961-018-0376-z

Abstract

BackgroundIssues with the uptake of research findings in applied health services research remain problematic. Part of this disconnect is attributed to the exclusion of knowledge users at the outset of a study, which often results in the generation of knowledge that is not usable at the point of care. Integrated knowledge translation blended with qualitative methodologies has the potential to address this issue by working alongside knowledge users throughout the research process. Nevertheless, there is currently a paucity of literature about how integrated knowledge translation can be integrated into qualitative methodology; herein, we begin to address this gap in methodology discourse. The purpose of this paper is to describe our experience of conducting a focused ethnography with a collaborative integrated knowledge translation approach, including the synergies and potential sources of discord between integrated knowledge translation and focused ethnography.MethodsWe describe the specific characteristics and synergies that exist when using an integrated knowledge translation approach with focused ethnography, using a research exemplar about the experiences of frail, older adults undergoing a transcatheter aortic valve implantation.ResultsEmbedding integrated knowledge translation within focused ethnography resulted in (1) an increased focus on the culture and values of the context under study, (2) a higher level of engagement among researchers, study participants and knowledge users, and (3) a commitment to partnership between researchers and knowledge users as part of a larger programme of research, resulting in a (4) greater emphasis on the importance of reciprocity and trustworthiness in the research process.ConclusionsEngaging in integrated knowledge translation from the outset of a study ensures that research findings are relevant for application at the point of care. The integration of integrated knowledge translation within focused ethnography allows for real-time uptake of meaningful and emerging findings, the strengthening of collaborative research teams, and opportunities for sustained programmes of research and relationships in the field of health services research. Further exploration of the integration of knowledge translation approaches with qualitative methodologies is recommended.

Highlights

Issues with the uptake of research findings in applied health services research remain problematic
Results we begin by describing focused ethnography and integrated knowledge translation as they were implemented in our study
Integrated knowledge translation A collaborative research venture undertaken by researchers and knowledge users with the intention of generating knowledge that is meaningful and mutually beneficial [1]

Summary

Introduction

Issues with the uptake of research findings in applied health services research remain problematic. This problem is amplified since rapidly changing healthcare systems can render research knowledge irrelevant before it reaches the application stage if left to end-stage knowledge translation strategies alone [1] This disconnect between research and application, or the “knowledge to action gap” [1], can stem from a failure to produce meaningful and relevant knowledge for users. To address these challenges, integrated knowledge translation is gaining momentum as a much needed “involved social process” [2] to embed in health services research In this approach, collaborative activities between researchers and knowledge users take place concurrently with the research process, and can include identifying the research questions, selecting the methodology, collecting data, analysing and interpreting findings, and shaping the dissemination approach [3, 4]. The end result of this collaboration between researchers and knowledge users is an efficient and expedient integration of mutually beneficial findings into practice [6] since findings are more likely to be both useful and readily applicable and, importantly, can be used both during and after the research process [1, 7]

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