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New Video Available: Information Retrieval for International Disability and Rehabilitation Research

The Center on Knowledge Translation for Disability and Rehabilitation Research, funded by the US Education Department/National Institute on Disability Rehabilitation Research, has as its 'purpose is to make it easier to find, understand, and use the results of research that can make a positive impact on the lives of people with disabilities. In collaboration with several national and international partners, the Center on KTDRR carries out integrated training, dissemination, utilization, and technical assistance activities to (a) increase use of valid and relevant evidence-based research findings that inform decision-making and (b) increase the understanding and application of knowledge translation principles.'

The Center on Knowledge Translation for Disability and Rehabilitation Research partners with the following international organizations.

  • The Campbell Collaboration (C2)
  • Cochrane Collaboration
  • Canadian Institutes of Health Research
  • Evidence for Policy and Practice Information and Co-ordinating Centre

The Center on KTDRR works with a Consumer Review Panel in order to ensure that information for consumers is responsive to their needs, accessible, and helpful on how to use evidence-based research information in decision-making. The members of the Consumer Review Panel represent different disabilities and populations such as people with vision impairments, hearing impairments, or physical disabilities such as spinal cord injuries and autism. Individuals were invited to participate from SEDL's extensive national network, including the ADA National Network, Model Systems projects, Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers (RRTCs), Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers (RERCs) and other NIDRR-funded projects. In addition SEDL regularly works with consumer-based organizations including Centers for Independent Living, the American Association of People with Disabilities, Americans Disabled for Attendant Programs Today (ADAPT), APSE (formerly the Association for Persons in Supported Employment), and others. Nominees expressed that they have both time and interest in working with the KTDRR.

The Panel's activities include reviewing materials to ensure an accessible consumer orientation, suggesting new features for consumers that are not in the Center's current plans, facilitating contact with additional consumer and advocacy groups, and suggesting ways to seek input on the use of disability and rehabilitation evidence.