Research Guide for Library Faculty: Knowledge Mobilization

Knowledge Mobilization (KMb) is the term used to encompass a wide range of knowledge sharing activities that involve the production and use of research results. The Social Science and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) defines KMb as "the reciprocal and complementary flow and uptake of research knowledge between researchers, knowledge brokers and knowledge users—both within and beyond academia—in such a way that may benefit users and create positive impacts within Canada and/or internationally, and, ultimately, has the potential to enhance the profile, reach and impact of social sciences and humanities research" (www.sshrc-crsh.gc.ca).

In today's research environment, KMb goes beyond the traditional academic publications. KMb-type activities include a variety of outputs:

• publications (e.g., articles, chapters, reports, policy briefs, textbooks, pamphlets, brochures)
• presentations (e.g., conferences, meetings, colloquia, guest lectures, public lectures, interviews, workshops)
• media/technology (e.g., social media, video and media productions, websites, blogs)
• tools (e.g., courses, educational materials, databases)
• artistic works (e.g., art exhibitions, performances, plays/literature, recordings)
• other (e.g., advisory services, training)

For more information about KMb, you can see SSHRC's Guidelines for Effective Knowledge Mobilization.

What is the message(s) you want to share?

Who are your audiences (both academic and non-academic)? What target audiences (i.e., knowledge users) do you need/want to share your research with?

How will you share the message? What products will you create to share that message? What products/outputs will best reach your target audiences?