Fundamentals of Dissemination and Implementation Research

Course Description

This course provides an overview of the principles and practices of dissemination and implementation research in the context of the translational research continuum. Content areas include the populations studied, data sources and user audiences (e.g., the research community, health care practitioners, program directors and community stakeholders).

Students are exposed to a range of dissemination and implementation research topics and conceptual frameworks. Emphasis is placed on the importance of context (e.g., healthcare setting, family, community, culture and socioeconomic status) in conducting dissemination and implementation research.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete the course will be able to:

1. Demonstrate systems thinking in the design and conduct of research and implementation of its findings within the context of complex health systems.
2. Demonstrate an ability to use theory and conceptual models in the design and interpretation of dissemination and implementation research.
3. Describe implementation and scale-up and relate implementation research to these processes.
4. Classify research questions and associated research that falls under dissemination and implementation research.
5. Summarize framework characteristics and identify strategies for applying them dissemination and implementation research.
6. Identify appropriate means for integrating stakeholders in the planning of dissemination and implementation research and in communicating results.