This week, to illustrate the importance of knowledge synthesis to knowledge translation and evidence-based policy-making, we are looking at highly publicized instances of evidence being put on trial in the world of nutrition policy.

Did you know that the melting snow and longer days are not just a sign that spring is just around the corner, but also a reminder that the KT conference season is only a couple of months away? Whether you are new to KT, or a seasoned expert, there are a variety of KT conferences across Canada that will help you make KT an integral part of your research practice.

Facts, values, and emotions are intertwined in complex relationships that guide policy decisions. The ability to influence decision making depends on building trust through understanding these relationships.

Written by Diane Christensen and edited by KT Alberta

The word "infographic" may have become an umbrella term for describing poster products that visually show some amount of quantifiable data. However, infographics and info-posters are very different visual knowledge products. How do we distinguish the two?

“We could find people doing KT all over the province but in different fields, and we wanted to bring them together in an environment where they could share and build on experiences. So that somebody from rehabilitation medicine can learn from someone doing cancer care, or behavior scientists can learn from those specializing in communications, etc. There is something to learn from everyone.”

“For families, the most important thing is that they’re able to see themselves in these tools. If they can see themselves, they’re able to relate to the information in a unique way that helps them understand and retain the information, as well as getting some emotional re-assurance. They don’t feel alone, and this is very motivating for them.”

“KT and IS, ultimately loops all of us who are both practitioners and researchers, towards getting to know each other better, and to explore how best to facilitate each other’s work.”

You have probably heard the phrase “Community of Practice”. But what exactly is it? How does it work? What guides whether it succeeds or fails?