Posted by Dr Samantha Durrant and Carly Hartshorn 

Sharing research findings with practitioners can present a challenge for researchers — after all, the leap from academic findings to real-world application is not always straightforward, obvious or clear (even to the researchers themselves). An alternative to traditional methods is using a collaborative approach to presenting research and the potential application of the findings. Having both a researcher and a speech and language therapist (SLT) share the stage, can be particularly effective.

Recently, Dr Samantha Durrant (a researcher) and Carly Hartshorn (a specialist SLT) delivered a talk to early years practitioners on early language development. By combining the expertise of a researcher, who provided the latest evidence-based insights, and an SLT, who linked these findings directly to practice, we ensured the session was both informative and applicable. The audience left with increased knowledge and some practical ideas to take back and implement in their settings.

The Benefits of a Collaborative Approach

Balancing Theory with Practice – Research findings can sometimes feel abstract or detached from the everyday realities of a practitioner working with children and young people. It can be difficult to identify relevant research from the information available, and a busy practitioner may have limited time to evaluate the evidence presented. Having an SLT present the practical applications of research findings ensures that practitioners receive relevant, actionable strategies to take away and put into practice.

Building Trust and Credibility – While researchers provide rigorous, evidence-based insights, practitioners often look to those in trusted familiar roles for guidance on implementation of these ideas in a meaningful way. An SLT delivering the practice-based elements ensures that attendees hear from someone who understands their daily challenges, making the advice more relatable and trustworthy.

Navigating Tensions Between Research and Application – One of the challenges in any evidence-based profession is the gap between what research suggests and what is feasible in practice. Research findings may highlight best practices that are difficult to implement due to resource constraints, time limitations, or the complexity of individual cases. Addressing these tensions head-on allows for a more honest discussion and helps practitioners find realistic ways to integrate research into their work.

Identifying Gaps in Evidence – A joint presentation provides a unique opportunity to highlight areas where evidence is missing or incomplete particularly in cases of anecdotal experiences of effectiveness. Practitioners, including the SLT presenting, have valuable insights into real-world challenges that researchers may not have considered, making these sessions a springboard for future collaboration.

Demystifying Research – For many practitioners, research can seem distant or overly complex. By presenting it in an accessible way and showing how it translates into real-world impact, we help to bridge the gap between academia and practice, fostering greater engagement with evidence-based methods.

Looking Ahead: Promoting Collaborative Working

This collaborative approach to sharing research doesn’t just make the findings more accessible—it fosters a culture of shared learning. Practitioners feel empowered when they are implementing evidence-based strategies, researchers gain a deeper understanding of practical challenges, and both groups contribute to the ongoing conversation about best practices in language development in the early years.

By continuing to work together, we can ensure that research is not just something that happens in universities but is actively shaping and improving real-world practice. Encouraging open dialogue between researchers and practitioners helps to build a stronger evidence base and, ultimately, leads to better outcomes for all children, and particularly those who may experience language difficulties.

Our session reinforced the importance of this joint approach. In order to continue to move forward with authentic research that has clear actionable real-world application it is crucial that researchers engage with the individuals on the ground working with the populations that they are studying.

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