A group of researchers from the Canadian Association of Research Libraries, l'Université de Montréal, and the University of Western Ontario are launching a two-year study of knowledge dissemination in Canada. Using an innovative methodology, the investigators, William F. Birdsall, Jean-Claude Guédon, and Robert E. Babe, along with a team of collaborators and partners, will examine the current system for disseminating research knowledge and identify whether Canada needs a national research strategy in this area.
Knowledge gained through scholarly research contributes to economic, social, and cultural well-being. However, this research has little value if it is not shared and disseminated widely. Currently, the Canadian system for disseminating research knowledge is being challenged on several fronts, by new technology, globalization, and changing research patterns. Canadas response to these drivers will determine its ability to make use of research knowledge and remain competitive on the international scene. This study will identify critical areas within the Canadian scholarly communication system that must be addressed and propose a comprehensive research strategy for knowledge dissemination in Canada.
Participation by Canadian researchers, the users and creators of knowledge, is a crucial aspect of this study. Investigators will employ a web-based consensus process to collect the input of Canadian researchers and the larger stakeholder community.
The study is funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and the Canadian Association of Research Libraries. Members of the Canada Institute for Scientific and Technical Information, the Canadian National Site Licensing Project, Dalhousie University, and the National Library of Canada are collaborating in the study.
For more details, visit the project website at http://www.kdstudy.ca or contact the Principal Investigator:
William F. Birdsall
Canadian Association of Research Libraries
Tel: (902) 835-2821
Email:
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