Knowledge mobilisation at the Prevention Centre

Knowledge mobilisation describes how knowledge is created and used to inform policy and practice.

The Prevention Centre uses knowledge mobilisation plans to support the use of research findings to prevent chronic disease. Knowledge mobilisation also refers to the use of other forms of knowledge, such as practical experience and local data, and relies on collaboration between those who work in research, policy and practice roles.

Why knowledge mobilisation is important

The overall goal of the Prevention Centre is to inform policy and practice to reduce the rate of lifestyle-related chronic disease nationally. Traditionally, efforts by researchers to inform policy and practice would focus on the publication and dissemination of research findings. This had limited success because the processes that create health policy and practice are complex and dynamic.

Knowledge mobilisation seeks to apply a systems approach which recognises that many problems in policy and practice are complex, dynamic and have a web of interconnected elements. Systems practice has the potential to be more effective in addressing complex problems like chronic disease.

Understanding the complexities of policy and practice decisions is important as it helps us to know when and where to use different knowledge mobilisation strategies, how they interact and reinforce one another, and how they can be used flexibly according to local needs.