Exploring the creation or adaptation of knowledge mobilization products for culturally and linguistically diverse audiences: a scoping review

Abstract

IntroductionConnecting end-users to research evidence has the power to improve patient knowledge and inform health decision-making. However, recognized barriers to or determinants of effective knowledge mobilization (KMb) are differences in culture and language among the end users of the evidence. This scoping review set out to understand current processes and practices when creating or adapting KMb products for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) audiences.MethodsWe searched 3 databases (Ovid Medline, CINAHL via EBSCOhost, PsychINFO) from 2011 until August 2021. We included any literature about KMb product creation or adaptation processes serving CALD communities. A primary reviewer screened all identified publications and a second reviewer screened publications excluded by the primary. Data were extracted using a standardized form by one reviewer and 10% were verified by a second reviewer. Studies were categorized by type of adaptation (‘surface’ or ‘deep’ structure) and mapped based on type of stakeholder engagement used (i2S model). A search update was run in July 2023, and screening and extraction are in progress.ResultsSeven thousand four hundred and five unique titles and abstracts were reviewed, 319 full-text studies were retrieved and reviewed, and 24 studies were included in final data extraction and mapping. Fifteen studies (63%) created or adapted exclusively text-based KMb products such as leaflets and pamphlets and 9 (38%) produced digital products such as videos (n=4, 16%), mobile applications (n=3, 13%), website (n=1, 4%) and a CD ROM (n=1, 4%). Eight studies (33%) reported following a framework or theory for their creation or adaptation efforts. Only five studies (21%) demonstrated ‘deep structure’ cultural sensitivity and applied all five (Inform, Consult, Involve, Collaborate, and Support) levels of stakeholder engagement. Four (17%) studies included reflections from the research teams on the processes for creating or adapting KMb products for CALD communities.ConclusionIncluded studies cited a variety of methods in creating or adapting KMb products for CALD communities. Successful uptake of created or adapted KMb products was often the result of collaboration with end-users for more applicable, accessible and meaningful products. Further research developing guidance and best practices is needed to support the creation or adaptation of KMb products with CALD communities.