Investigating Knowledge Translation Dynamics for a Multi-Agency Response to Gender-Based Abuse

Abstract

Domestic, sexual, and gender-based abuse (DSGBA) is a complex societal issue with implications for individuals, families, and communities. According to the World Health Organisation, violence remains a pervasive problem, affecting one in three women globally. Addressing this complex issue requires the coordinated efforts of all agencies involved in the intervention and prevention of DSGBA. Despite shared goals, these agencies predominantly operate independently, resulting in the development of their own knowledge bases. Recognising the negative implications of agencies developing isolated knowledge bases for service users and society, this Action Research study adopts an integrated knowledge translation approach to investigate the knowledge production and transfer processes among multi-agency practitioners and academics engaged in the DSGBA field. The study introduces a virtual community of practice (vCoP) as a dynamic knowledge management system, aiming to evaluate its effectiveness in facilitating knowledge translation and bridging the research-to-practice gap. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative and qualitative measures to explore knowledge transfer dynamics. Surveys, focus groups, interviews, user metrics, and content analysis provide a comprehensive understanding of community participation and interaction within a vCoP. Beyond traditional analysis methods, this study incorporates natural language processing techniques to uncover patterns, themes, and sentiments, facilitating the knowledge translation process. By extracting and translating insights from the vCoP discussion forums, the research aims to produce actionable resources such as best practices, academic papers, and policy guidelines, bridging the research-to-practice gap. The study aims to contribute a framework for implementing multi-agency vCoP, offering insights that could be adapted and applied in similar contexts. In addition, it seeks to address knowledge production and translation issues by fostering improved collaboration between academia and practitioners. The enhanced understanding of knowledge transfer dynamics within the DSGBA vCoP has the potential to influence positive change in decision-making processes and best practices, leading to more effective interventions and services combatting DSGBA.