Translating research and evidence into practice: Understanding the influencing factors

Abstract

As the education continuum moves toward a competency-based format, there is also a movement toward the need to translate research and evidence into clinical and academic practice. While there has been much written about the theoretical basis of knowledge translation, significantly less exists about the practical aspects surrounding this. This article will examine the practical and theoretical basis for using research and evidence to inform clinical and academic practice. It will begin by developing a working definition of research, evidence, and practice. Theoretical basis and its role in translation will then be discussed. The article will finish by discussing practical tips for implementing research and evidence into practice.