Browsing by Author "Assr, Sophrina Rogasian"

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    Research dissemination in Tanzania: practices and challenges.
    (University of Dar es Salaam, 2016) Assr, Sophrina Rogasian
    Despite the critical role of research in development, a gap between research and practice has been reported worldwide. Poor research dissemination has been identified as one of the key factor perpetuating this gap. This study was therefore undertaken to find out whether the problem exist in Tanzania too. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was carried out in the six selected research institutions in Tanzania to examine research dissemination practices, assess the researchers’ awareness of the impacts of their research activities; and identify constraints to effective dissemination. Convenience or accidental sampling was used to select 151 respondents who were handed questionnaires to fill in. Only 86 questionnaires were returned. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with key informants from each study institutions. The information was supplemented with documentary review. The findings showed that dissemination of research findings in the selected research institution was far from satisfactory. Shortcomings were recorded in the examined dissemination practices whereby most researchers did not plan for dissemination properly. There was also serious underestimation of budget required for research dissemination. All study institutions were yet to employ special communication cadre (intermediaries) to assist with research dissemination despite their existence elsewhere. Researchers were found to use limited dissemination channels and sometimes inappropriate channels to reach their target audiences. A significant proportion of researchers did not undertake evaluation of their dissemination strategy. As a result, less than 50% of respondents could record the specific impacts of the research they have undertaken. A number of constraints to effective research dissemination were identified, the top most being inadequate funding. Other major challenges identified include: lack of knowledge and skills to go beyond academic circles, lack of tradition of collaboration with other audiences apart from academics and poor linkage with other audiences in a way that promotes a continuous dialogue. It was recommended that sufficient funds should be allocated for research funded by government to cover the costs of carrying out effective research dissemination. For donor funded research, more resources and incentives for research dissemination beyond the usual academic channels should be provided. Importantly, researchers should be equipped to communicate more effectively and more regularly with their wider audiences.