Research utilization process model: A cyclical, spiral, and developmental process to provide conclusive research knowledge in health professions education

Abstract

Background: Research utilization plays an important role in evidence-based practice. Health professions education is a research-based discipline. Conclusive research knowledge is ranked as high level of evidence in evidence-based practice. This study was conducted to develop a model to reach conclusive research knowledge in health professions education. Methods: This study was conducted in 2 phases. In the first phase, a qualitative content analysis of the literature was performed, which provided research utilization concepts to design a model. In the second phase, a group of 5 consultants of health professions education designed a preliminary model and revised it to develop an appropriate model for research utilization in health professions education. Results: The indicators mentioned in 24 documents were extracted and later categorized into 25 items. Then, 8 concepts emerged, including problem identification, research design and implementation, research reports, research publication, presentation, research access, adoption, and research use. These concepts were arranged to design a model for research utilization in health professions education. Conclusion: This study illustrated a cyclical, spiral, and developmental model to reach conclusive research knowledge. This model emphasizes both primary and secondary research projects to reach conclusive research knowledge. Also, it distinguishes between aligned transfer and cooperative presentation in research knowledge dissemination. This model reveals the importance of the process use in health profession education. Also, it distinguishes between use and misuse of research findings.