Knowledge Management - Training Modules

This module on Knowledge Management (KM) has 5 units, which are listed below with brief summaries of the content of each unit and PDF links to the units. Each unit includes: practical and learning objectives, a topic note, an annotated bibliography, tools and resources, exercises, and some case studies. The intent is for the modules to be a source of information, tools and ideas.

The modules are designed for individual (distance) learning – with or without mentors/guides. They can also be used in planned events, such as workshops or a series of small group "tutorials" or seminars.

Unit 1: Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in KM
Looks at what knowledge management entails by providing an extensive introduction to KM software. This includes communicating on-line through the use of email, list software, Internet Relay Chat and web-conferencing; project management and team collaboration through the use of "digital workspace" technology; and knowledge dissemination. The latter section includes topics such as electronic newsletters, websites and web portals and on-demand, electronic publishing. A further section includes locating information on the Internet and the use of search engines, databases and clearinghouses.

Unit 2: Knowledge Translation: Using Knowledge for Policy, Practice and Action
This unit is about how knowledge can be used in policy development, health system management, health care practice, and direct action by health service users. The authors explain that this process involves a double knowledge management challenge. For researchers, the challenge includes the process of assessing knowledge needs, estimating how much information is enough, and trying to make information speak for itself – ensuring that relevant knowledge is useable. For knowledge users, the challenge includes having a mindset which recognises that relevant and valid knowledge (evidence) is needed and often available, the capacity (system) for obtaining and evaluating knowledge, using or applying knowledge for a particular purpose or function.

Unit 3: Management Skills for KM
Designed to assist those involved in the research process as "knowledge managers". The emphasis is on creating, customising and adapting knowledge management systems for specific purposes, in particular the management of research projects and programmes. A knowledge management system framework is introduced to explore this topic. Several tools, related to commissioning research for evidence (i.e., writing terms of reference, calling for proposals), can be found among those in the Tools and Resources section.

Unit 4: "Going Local": Using Evidence at the Local Level
This unit focuses on two aspects of local knowledge: "formal" (scientific) information about a local situation, and "indigenous" knowledge (knowledge that is imbedded in local traditions, stories, and other repositories of local wisdom). Explores how to combine and integrate these two types of local knowledge along with "global" knowledge to facilitate the actions of health workers at the community level.

Unit 5: Knowledge Networks
This unit describes two kinds of knowledge networks – informal and formal. Some special features of knowledge networks for health are presented. Tools and strategies for assessing knowledge networks are included.

Click here to access all of the above units as PDF downloads.