Closing the evidence, research, and practice loop: Examples of knowledge transfer and exchange from the field of aphasia

Aura Kagana*, Nina Simmons-Mackieb, Jane Brenneman Gibsonc, James Conklind & Roberta J. Elmane a Aphasia Institute (incorporating the Pat Arato Aphasia Centre), Toronto, ON, and University of Toronto , ON, Canada b Southeastern Louisiana University , Hammond, LA, USA c Institute for Work & Health , Toronto, ON, Canada d Concordia University , Montreal, PQ, Canada e Aphasia Center of California , Oakland, CA, USA * Aphasia Institute, 73 Scarsdale Road, Toronto, ON, M3B 2R2, Canada E-mail: akagan@aphasia. Background: Knowledge transfer and exchange (KTE) is an emerging area of expertise with potential to foster productive relationships between researchers and users of research in the field of aphasia. Effective KTE can increase the use of research evidence in policy and practice decisions and enable researchers to identify research questions that are relevant to potential users of research. In Canada it is now frequently mandatory for research applications to include a KTE plan. Aims: To provide a background to KTE by reviewing theoretical models and basic principles and elements of a KTE plan, as well as by highlighting potential contributions to the field of clinical aphasiology. Main contribution: Introduction of a new area of expertise to our field with examples of practical applications. Conclusions: The application of KTE principles and methods has positive implications for clinical and policy decision making in the field of clinical aphasiology. The authors thank staff at the Aphasia Institute, and all those involved in the think tank, conference, and community of practice referred to in the article. Thanks also to Ada Mok for administrative support.