Browsing by Author "McLean, Robert Kenneth Douglas"

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    Innovation and incentives : role of the research funder in knowledge translation and scaling science
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2020-12) McLean, Robert Kenneth Douglas; Volmink, Jimmy; Graham, Ian; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dept. of Global Health. Health Systems and Public Health.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dept. of Global Health. Health Systems and Public Health.
    ENGLISH SUMMARY : Research and innovation are vital to global sustainable development and human prosperity. However, it is well documented that the creation of knowledge does not ensure its effective and ethical application. In fact, studies indicate that knowledge is converted into action in slow, haphazard, and inequitable ways. This dissertation casts new light on this challenge by investigating an understudied component of knowledge translation (KT), the role of the research funder. This dissertation applied a multi-stream study design and mixed-methods data collection and analysis strategy. The research used an Integrated Knowledge Translation (IKT) approach which facilitated a focused and dynamic investigation, at the same time promoting relevance and uptake with the intended research-user, research funders. Stream one, Funders’ KT, initiates the dissertation using a single funder case study to construct a KT-focused evaluation protocol, and an international empirical scan of 26 health research funding agencies resulting in a state-of-the-art overview of how funders support KT. An unexpected and significant finding was the lack of empirical evidence guiding funders’ KT support. From this result, research streams two and three were born. Stream two, Scaling Science, investigates facilitators of research impact using a large multi-project review and in-depth case studies. Results include a typology of pathways to scale and four guiding principles for scaling impact. These innovations are converted into an action-oriented tool that will help researchers build evidenced practices into their research. Stream three, Research Quality Plus (RQ+), describes a novel evaluation framework for assessing research quality with KT in mind. The RQ+ approach is implemented in seven funder-based evaluations and the aggregate evaluation results are synthesized via meta-analysis. Results demonstrate that KT and scientific rigour can be pursued, accomplished, and assessed as equally valued dimensions of research quality. The validation of the RQ+ approach showcases a fresh and practical framework for funders and other science systems actors interested in KT and scaling science. Overall, the results of this dissertation fill a critical knowledge gap related to the role of the funder in research translation and impact. In turn, they demonstrate original and significant contributions to global academic knowledge and understanding of KT theory and practice. To convert this knowledge into action, practical guidance is developed, elaborated, and validated.