After the crash: Research-based theater for knowledge transfer

Abstract

Introduction: 

The aim of this project was to develop and evaluate a research-based dramatic production for the purpose of transferring knowledge about traumatic brain injury (TBI) to health care professionals, managers, and decision makers.

Methods: 

Using results drawn from six focus group discussions with key stakeholders (consumers, informal caregivers, and health care practitioners experienced in the field of TBI) and relevant scientific literature, a 50-minute play was produced for the purpose of conveying the experiences of TBI survivors, informal care providers, and health practitioners and best practice for TBI care. A self-administered postperformance survey was distributed to audience members at the end of four performances in Ontario, Canada, to evaluate the play's efficacy. Two hundred ninety-one questionnaires were completed. The questionnaire had five questions scored on a 5-item Likert scale with space for open-ended comments.

Results: 

Consistently high mean scores from the questionnaires indicate that theater is a highly efficacious and engaging method of knowledge transfer, particularly for complex material that deals with human emotion and interpersonal relationships.

Discussion: 

Responses supported the effectiveness of drama as a knowledge translation strategy and identified its potential to impact practice positively.