The development and evaluation of the Designing for Dissemination and Implementation Learning Hub

Abstract

Abstract There is a growing emphasis on reducing the gap between research and routine practice. Dissemination and Implementation (D&I) science offers theories, models, and frameworks to enhance the implementation, impact, and sustainment of new programs and interventions. Few training opportunities are available that help leaders, researchers, clinicians, and staff (implementers) translate original research into practice settings in a more timely and effective manner without requiring significant time away from their primary clinical duties. To address these needs, we designed a virtual Designing for Dissemination and Implementation (D4D&I) Learning Hub that offered foundational D&I knowledge and opportunities for skill building. We developed the D4D&I Learning Hub curricula to train novice participants in the multicomponent D4D&I implementation strategy bundle when implementing new programs or innovations. The components of the D4D&I strategy bundle include (i) Pre-implementation assessment for proactive planning and multilevel contextual assessment, (ii) Multilevel partner engagement to learn what is important to end-users and obtain buy-in, (iii) Implementation and adaptations guided by a pre-implementation assessment while retaining program fidelity, and (iv) Program evaluation. We utilized a virtual e-learning platform, expert trainers, mentorship, and a Virtual Learning Collaborative to deliver the six-module curricula to support participants’ growth and success. We used quantitative and qualitative methods informed by the Kirkpatrick Evaluation Model to evaluate the D4D&I Learning Hub. Thirty-one participants completed the D4D&I Learning Hub across four cohorts. Participants found the D4D&I curricula relevant and favorable, indicating they acquired the intended knowledge and skills. In presentations of their key takeaways, participants cited a greater understanding of how to apply various D&I theories, models, and frameworks to their research, engage multilevel partners during all phases of implementation and evaluation, and assess fidelity and adaptations. Participants planned to incorporate the acquired D&I knowledge and skills in future publications, grant applications, and when implementing new programs and projects in clinical settings. The D4D&I Learning Hub provides foundational education for novice participants of D&I science. It promotes designing, disseminating, implementing, and evaluating effective programs in clinical settings. This article discusses the development and implementation of the D4D&I Learning Hub. In addition, we evaluated the first four cohorts using the Kirkpatrick Evaluation Model.