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1 More Research? Better Implementation?

Relevant to: Research, Policy, Practice
Sector: multi-sector

Summary

In this paper, Hering discusses barriers to effective knowledge exchange at the science-policy or science-practice interface and then considers knowledge brokering, either within academic institutions or within boundary organisations, as a means to overcome these obstacles. Her main argument is that knowledge brokering and boundary organisations are the most effective measures for knowledge transfer and exchange at the science-policy or science-practice interface.

She discusses some traits of knowledge brokering and knowledge brokers and identifies some of the obstacles they may face. She then presents a model for knowledge brokering, positioned as an iterative process of translation between scientific and technical experts and decision makers, and makes recommendations for establishing and supporting knowledge brokering positions within academic institutions that are sustainable. She argues that knowledge brokering offers the best chance for decision-making to benefit from scientific knowledge.

While this paper presents some interesting ideas, the model remains conceptual. It is unclear how well it would, or even could, work in practice. While there is support in the academic literature for her argument that knowledge brokering positions should be established within academic institutions, her ideas on how this should be implemented have not been tested. Further consideration would need to be given and trials undertaken to test this approach.

This summary was developed from the following paper:
Hering, J.G. (2016) Do we need “more research” pr better implementation through knowledge brokering? Sustainability Science 11: 363-369.