Understanding Brokerage in Education: Forward Tracking From Research to Practice

• In Event: Research Use: Motivation, Mobilization, and Brokerage

Abstract

This study investigates the system of research brokerage—defined as the network of actors, activities, and motivations within which education research is exchanged, transformed, and otherwise communicated. Using forward tracking case studies, three areas of inquiry are explored: (1) what individuals and organizations comprise this system and who within the system serves as knowledge brokers, (2) what research products move throughout the system and how research products are transformed within the system, and (3) the paths by which information moves from research into practice. These case studies highlight the critical importance of brokerage in moving research-based ideas into practice as well as highlight issues related to understanding and leveraging the system of brokerage to strengthen relationships between research and practice.

Authors

• Samantha Jo Shewchuk, University of Delaware

• Elizabeth N. Farley-Ripple, University of Delaware