Transmedia, bridges, and layers (oh my) – A new publication on Knowledge Mobilisation and Participatory Action Research

Blog post by Colin R Anderson 

Canadian prairie

A new article in the Action Research Journal uses a case study approach to present three key knowledge mobilization strategies that can be used to mobilise knowledge in processes of social change:
  • using transmedia to exchange knowledge across a range of communication media;
  • building bridges to invite communication amongst diverse knowledge communities; and
  • layering to communicate knowledge at varying levels of detail.

Mainstream research and scientific communication focus on transferring expert knowledge to a deficient public – a hierarchical and one way transfer of knowledge.

In contrast, knowledge mobilization processes involve close collaboration between researchers and community actors as co-enquirers as a part of a broader agenda for progressive social change. They involve strategic communication strategies that mobilize knowledge beyond those directly involved in the research process.

In this article, we illustrate the cyclical nature of knowledge mobilization processes through a reflective case study of a participatory action research program in the Canadian Prairies.

We critically examine our own practice as a contested and partial process in tension with the hostile institutional and cultural structures in science and universities that promote a linear knowledge transfer paradigm. This context  supports the monopoly of knowledge held by experts and marginalizes other knowledge holders and ways of knowing.

Knowledge mobilization strategies provide a framework to implement research methods, communication processes, and outcomes that are high in impact and relevant in struggles for a more just and resilient society.

Anderson, C. R., & McLachlan, S. M. (2015). Transformative research as knowledge mobilization: Transmedia, bridges, and layers. Action Research, 14(3), 295-317. doi:10.1177/1476750315616684

Mainstream knowledge production and communication in the academy generally reflect the tenets of positivist research and predominantly embody hierarchical processes of knowledge transfer. In contrast, a transformative research paradigm is rooted in knowledge mobilization processes involving close collaboration between researchers and community actors as co-enquirers as a part of a broader agenda for progressive social change. They also involve strategic communication strategies that mobilize knowledge beyond those directly involved in the research process. We illustrate the cyclical pattern and transgressive potential of knowledge mobilization processes through a reflective case study of a participatory action research program in the Canadian Prairies. Based on this work, we present three key knowledge mobilization strategies. These include: using transmedia to exchange knowledge across a range of communication media; building bridges to invite communication amongst diverse knowledge communities; and layering to communicate knowledge at varying levels of detail. We critically examine our own practice as a contested and partial process in tension with the institutional and cultural durability of the more linear knowledge transfer paradigm. Knowledge mobilization strategies provide a framework to implement research methods, communication processes, and outcomes that are high in impact and relevant in struggles for a more just and resilient society.

After you’ve had a chance to read this piece, please share your thoughts, ideas, or experiences with our community so we can continue this discussion! The AR+ site is hosting a discussion forum for us to talk about our reactions and experiences related this topic. You can access the discussion forum HERE.