Knowledge transfer: bridging the other gap

Knowledge transfer (KT) refers to transmission and dissemination of scientific findings developed at universities to commercial, industrial or social institutions with the aim of developing new products, tools and services that become available to the public. In our knowledge-based economy, the importance of academic output grows. Simultaneously, the role of academic KT in improving quality- of-life, health and well-being becomes increasingly meaningful. Additionally, close involvement of social and commercial institutions in research focuses research towards the needs of society. However, for most in clinical psychology researchers, KT is unknown territory. This workshop initiates participants in this inspiring domain. First, there will be an introduction on KT, dissemination and valorization in general. A large IWT funded KT project on healthy food choices (Reward) will be used an example. We will discuss an example of how results of applied psychological research (i.e., on the electronic cigarette) are being disseminated, not only to (potential) students in training, people working in the field, but also through the media to everyone that could possibly benefit from this intervention. There will be a lively testimonial of a Flemish SME (The Human Link) with more than 10 years of experience on KT in psychology. Additionally, we will elaborate on the inherent multidisciplinary nature of KT. In the second part of the workshop, participants can elaborate on their own KT ideas in four brainstorm sessions, on well-being, healthy lifestyle, mental health and applied psychology.