Research Impact and Knowledge Mobilization

What is Research Impact?

Research impact refers to an effect, change, or benefit for the economy, society, culture, public policy or services, health, the environment, or quality of life beyond academia.

It can take various forms, occur in the short or long term, and most often results from the cumulative advancement and application of knowledge rather than a single discovery 1.

In short, this impact reflects the contributions that researchers make to the world 2.

Different Types of Research Impact

Research can generate a wide range of impacts. Academic impact refers to the contribution of research to the advancement of knowledge within the academic community. Non-academic impacts extend beyond the academic community and can take many forms.

Different Types of Research Impact

The types of impact presented here are based on the taxonomy developed by Fast Track Impact/Mark S. Reed and that of the European Science Foundation (ESF).

What is Knowledge Mobilization?

Knowledge mobilization serves as a bridge between academic research and non-academic partners, helping ensure that research findings and evidence inform decision-making 3.

It encompasses a broad range of activities that support the production and use of research results, including knowledge synthesis, as well as the dissemination, transfer, exchange, and co-creation among researchers and knowledge users.

Knowledge mobilization can rely on various strategies, such as implementation, dissemination, networking, intermediation, co-production, advocacy, exchange, and integration.

References:

  1. UK Research and Innovation. (2022). Defining Impact. UKRI Economic and Social Research Council.

  2. Reed, Mark S. (2018) The Research Impact Handbook, 3rd edition. Routhledge. Fenwick, T., & Farrell, L. (2012). Knowledge Mobilization and Educational Research: Politics, languages and responsibilities (1st edition) (Routledge).

  3. Fenwick, T., & Farrell, L. (2012). Knowledge Mobilization and Educational Research: Politics, languages and responsibilities (1st edition) (Routledge).