ERIC Number: EJ1322047
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2021-Nov
Pages: 25
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1744-2648
EISSN: N/A
Examining Peer Learning as a Strategy for Advancing Uptake of Evidence-Based Practices: A Scoping Review
Worton, S. Kathleen; Furman, Ellis
Evidence & Policy: A Journal of Research, Debate and Practice, v17 n4 p635-659 Nov 2021
Background: Continued evolution of knowledge-to-action (KTA) theories requires increased attention to dynamics of power and ways to integrate multiple forms of knowledge. Peer learning -- a process through which knowledge users interact with other learners -- is a valuable but largely unexamined strategy for integrating practice-based knowledge in the KTA process. Aims and objectives: This study undertakes a scoping review to examine how peer-learning strategies have been used to advance knowledge users' capacity for implementing evidence-based practices. Methods: A search of ten online databases and a manual search of five journals was conducted to identify studies published between 2001 and 2018. Selected publications included 26 studies conducted in Canada, the US, the UK, Australia, and the Netherlands. Studies utilised peer learning as a capacity-building strategy to advance the uptake or implementation of evidence-based practices among professionals in social services, education, or health/mental health sectors. Findings: Links between peer-learning strategies and multiple individual and/or collective capacities for implementing evidence-based practices were identified from selected studies. Individual capacities linked to peer learning include knowledge of the practice, attitudes (for example, motivation and 'buy-in'), and practical skills. Collective capacities supported through peer learning included knowledge exchange, knowledge generation, relationship development, networking, and resource/tool sharing. Peer learning was often paired with didactic or expert-led activities. Discussion and conclusions: This scoping review identifies how peer learning has been used as a capacity-building strategy in implementation initiatives. Peer-learning activities provide a means to help integrate multiple forms of knowledge in the KTA process.
Descriptors: Peer Teaching, Cooperative Learning, Learning Strategies, Evidence Based Practice, Foreign Countries, Capacity Building, Program Implementation, Social Services, Education, Health Services, Mental Health Programs, Professional Personnel
Policy Press. University of Bristol, 1-9 Old Park Hill, Bristol BS2 8BB, UK. Tel: +44-117-954-5940; e-mail: pp-info@policypress.co.uk; Web site: https://policypress.co.uk/journals/evidence-and-policy
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Information Analyses; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Canada; United States; United Kingdom; Australia; Netherlands
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A