International Journal of Humanities.
Education, and Social Sciences e-ISSN : 3026-0892 p-ISSN : 3026-1422 Index: Harvard.
Boston.
Sydney.
Dimensions.
Lens.
Scilit.
Semantic.
Google, etc https://doi.
org/10.
58578/IJHESS.
Communicating Educational Research to Policymakers and the Public: Strategies for Increasing Impact and Uptake Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim University of Calabar.
Calabar.
Nigeria karuku@unical.
mails4charls@gmail.
Article Info:
Submitted:
Revised:
Accepted:
Published:
Oct 13, 2025 Nov 4, 2025 Nov 16, 2025 Nov 21, 2025 Abstract Educational research plays a critical role in identifying effective pedagogical approaches, understanding learning challenges, and informing policy decisions aimed at improving educational outcomes, yet a persistent gap remains between the production of research findings and their uptake by key This study investigates the challenges and effective strategies for communicating educational research findings to policymakers, educators, parents, and the general public in Nigeria.
Employing a qualitative methodology based on the analysis of 80 online documents .
eports, articles, policy papers, and website.
, the research examines key communication barriers, successful strategies, researcherAestakeholder engagement mechanisms, and evaluation methods.
The findings underscore the need for tailored communication approaches that emphasize visual aids, storytelling, and participatory methods to enhance understanding and uptake of research evidence in policy and practice.
The study recommends establishing dedicated communication channels, fostering collaborations between researchers and stakeholders, and implementing robust evaluation frameworks to ensure the effectiveness and impact of educational research dissemination efforts.
Volume 3.
Issue 3, 2025.
Pages 1463-1481 https://ejournal.
yasin-alsys.
org/IJHESS IJHESS Journal is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.
0 International License Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim Keywords: Educational Research.
Research Communication.
Policy Uptake.
Knowledge Mobilization.
Public Understanding.
Evidence-Based Policy.
Nigeria
INTRODUCTION
Educational research presents a robust and multifaceted toolkit with the potential to dramatically reshape the landscape of education (Slavin, 2.
Through rigorous investigation and analysis, educational research uncovers evidence-based insights that can revolutionize traditional teaching methodologies, providing educators with more effective strategies to engage and support diverse learners.
Furthermore, it serves as a vital compass, informing the creation and implementation of sound educational policies that are grounded in empirical data, rather than conjecture or outdated practices.
Most importantly, the ultimate goal of educational research is to contribute to improved learning outcomes for students of all backgrounds, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full However, despite its immense promise, the full transformative power of educational research often remains untapped and underutilized in the educational A significant and persistent disconnect exists between the generation of rigorous research findings Ae the meticulous collection and analysis of data Ae and their practical application in the real world of classrooms, schools, and districts (Farrell & Coburn, 2.
Too frequently, valuable insights and groundbreaking discoveries languish in the often inaccessible corners of academic journals and exclusive conference proceedings, failing to reach the key stakeholders who are best positioned to translate them into meaningful action.
These stakeholders include policymakers responsible for shaping the future of education through legislation and resource allocation, educators on the front lines of instruction who directly interact with students daily, parents who are deeply invested in their children's learning and well-being, and the general public who ultimately fund and benefit from a thriving and equitable education system.
This persistent gap between research and practice, often referred to as the "research-practice gap," impedes evidence-based decision-making at all levels of the education system.
Without readily accessible and understandable research findings.
International Journal of Humanities.
Education, and Social Sciences Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim policymakers may continue to rely on intuition or political expediency, educators may persist in using ineffective methods due to a lack of awareness or training, and parents may struggle to support their children's learning in the most informed ways.
This lack of integration severely restricts the potential for meaningful and sustained progress in education (Levin, 2.
, hindering our ability to address critical challenges such as achievement gaps, inequitable access to resources, and the need to prepare students for the demands of a rapidly changing global society.
Bridging this gap is therefore paramount to realizing the full potential of educational research and creating a more effective, equitable, and impactful education system for all.
This research explores effective strategies for translating complex educational research findings into accessible, impactful messages for diverse audiences.
By examining communication techniques, dissemination pathways, and collaborative partnerships, we aim to provide a roadmap for researchers to increase the impact and uptake of their work, fostering greater public understanding of critical educational issues and promoting a more informed and effective education system.
Justification for the Study The underutilization of educational research in policy and practice represents a significant challenge for the field.
Several factors contribute to this gap.
Firstly, research is often perceived as inaccessible due to its technical jargon, complex methodologies, and lengthy reports (Godwin et al.
, 2.
Policymakers and practitioners, often working under tight deadlines and resource constraints, may lack the time or expertise to decipher and apply academic research (Tseng, 2.
Secondly, a disconnect can exist between the research questions being investigated and the practical concerns of educators or the immediate needs of policymakers (Penuel et al.
, 2.
This lack of relevance can further diminish the likelihood of research findings being adopted or implemented.
Finally, effective communication channels and strategies are often lacking, leaving researchers reliant on traditional academic publications that have limited reach among non-academic By identifying and promoting effective communication strategies, this study seeks to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring that evidence-based insights inform decision-making at all levels of the education system and among the public.
This is crucial for creating meaningful and lasting improvements in educational outcomes for all learners.
Volume 3.
Issue 3, 2025 Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim Research Questions:
What are the key challenges in communicating educational research to policymakers, educators, parents, and the general public? What communication strategies have been effective in translating complex educational research findings into accessible and impactful messages for diverse audiences? How can researchers engage with policymakers, educators, parents, and the general public to promote evidence-based decision-making and foster greater public understanding of educational issues? What are the best practices for evaluating the effectiveness of communication strategies in disseminating educational research findings to various stakeholders? Literature Review:
The Imperative of Effective Communication The value of rigorously conducted educational research diminishes considerably if it remains confined to academic journals and esoteric conference presentations.
The primary stakeholders of education Ae teachers, school administrators, curriculum developers, and policymakers Ae need access to research-based evidence to inform their decisions and As Lagemann .
argues, educational research should "matter" to practitioners, influencing their everyday work and leading to tangible improvements in the classroom and beyond.
Effective communication bridges this gap between research and practice, translating complex findings into actionable insights.
Several scholars emphasize the positive impact of bridging this gap.
Slavin .
underlines the importance of evidence-based practice in education, arguing that reliance on anecdotal evidence and intuition alone can lead to ineffective or even harmful By effectively communicating research findings, we empower educators to make informed choices grounded in empirical data.
Furthermore, effective communication can foster a culture of inquiry and continuous improvement within the education sector.
When educators are aware of the latest research, they are more likely to question their existing practices, experiment with new approaches, and contribute to the ongoing development of educational knowledge (Stenhouse, 1.
This cyclical process of research, dissemination, and application fuels progress and innovation in education.
International Journal of Humanities.
Education, and Social Sciences Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim For policymakers, access to well-communicated educational research is crucial for crafting effective policies and allocating resources strategically.
Evidence-based policies are more likely to achieve their intended outcomes and contribute to a more equitable and effective education system (Nutley et al.
, 2.
Research can inform policy decisions related to curriculum design, teacher training, school funding, and student support, leading to a more rational and data-driven approach to educational governance.
Beyond the direct stakeholders, the broader public also benefits from effective communication of educational research.
Informed citizens can engage in meaningful discussions about education policy and hold policymakers accountable for their decisions.
Clear and accessible communication of research findings can demystify complex educational issues and empower parents, community members, and other stakeholders to advocate for positive change within their local educational systems.
Challenges to Effective Communication of Educational Research Despite the clear need, effective communication of educational research faces numerous challenges, hindering its widespread adoption and impact.
These challenges can be categorized into several key areas:
A Language and Accessibility: Academic research is often written in a highly specialized language, using technical jargon and complex statistical analyses that are inaccessible to non-experts (Biesta, 2.
This "language barrier" prevents many educators from understanding and applying research findings in their own practice.
As Hammersley .
notes, the emphasis on methodological rigor and theoretical sophistication within the academic community can inadvertently create a divide between researchers and A Relevance and Context: Research findings may not always be directly relevant to the specific contexts faced by educators in different schools and communities.
Educational research is often conducted in specific settings with particular populations, and generalizing these findings to other contexts requires careful consideration of the local factors that may influence their applicability (Greenhalgh et al.
, 2.
Furthermore, the research questions addressed by academics may not always align with the practical problems faced by educators on a daily basis.
A Dissemination and Reach: Even when research findings are accessible and relevant, they may not reach the intended audience due to inadequate dissemination strategies.
Volume 3.
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Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim Academic journals often have limited circulation and are not widely read by educators.
Furthermore, many educators lack the time and resources to search for and critically evaluate research evidence (Cordingley, 2.
As a result, valuable research findings may remain buried within academic databases, failing to reach the practitioners who could benefit from them.
A Trust and Perceived Bias: Educators may be skeptical of research findings, particularly if they perceive the research to be biased or disconnected from their lived experiences.
Some researchers may have a vested interest in promoting particular ideologies or policy agendas, which can undermine the credibility of their findings (Tooley & Darby, 1.
Furthermore, educators may feel that academic research is out of touch with the realities of the classroom, leading them to dismiss its relevance and value.
A Time Constraints: Effective communication requires dedicated time and resources, which are often scarce within the education sector.
Researchers may lack the time or expertise to translate their findings into accessible formats or to engage in outreach activities that can reach a wider audience.
Similarly, educators may be overburdened with their teaching responsibilities and have limited time to engage with research findings (Earl & Timperley, 2.
Strategies For Communicating Educational Research Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving researchers, educators, policymakers, and intermediaries.
Several strategies can be employed to improve the communication of educational research:
Knowledge Translation (KT) Knowledge Translation (KT) is far more intricate than simply disseminating research findings.
it's a complex, iterative process focused on moving research from the academic sphere into real-world applications and impacting policy and practice (Graham et , 2.
This involves active engagement with diverse stakeholders, not just passive It requires a deep understanding of the target audience's needs, perspectives, and existing knowledge base (Van der Leeuw et al.
, 2.
Effective KT strategies tailor communication methods to these specific audiences, ensuring relevance and accessibility.
For instance, a farmer might respond better to a hands-on demonstration than a lengthy research paper.
Building collaborative relationships is paramount.
it's about co-creating solutions with those who will ultimately implement the research findings, ensuring buy-in International Journal of Humanities.
Education, and Social Sciences Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim and sustained impact (Mitton et al.
, 2.
Successful KT necessitates a reciprocal exchange of knowledge, where researchers are actively listening to and learning from practitioners and community members.
Furthermore, evaluating the impact of KT interventions is crucial, demanding the use of robust methods to assess changes in knowledge, attitudes, behaviours and ultimately, health outcomes (Eccles et al.
, 2.
Ignoring this feedback loop hinders the effectiveness of the entire KT process and risks perpetuating a cycle of research that remains unused.
Plain Language Summarization:
The complex language and technical jargon often used in research publications create barriers to understanding for non-experts (Weiss, 2.
This necessitates plain language summarization Ae a crucial step in ensuring broader engagement and impact.
Plain language summarization translates complex research findings into concise, easy-tounderstand formats tailored for diverse audiences, including policymakers, practitioners, community members, and the general public (Davis, 2.
This involves simplifying complex concepts, avoiding technical jargon, defining key terms clearly, and using visuals such as charts, graphs, and infographics to illustrate key findings (Heller, 2.
For example, instead of using the term "statistical significance," a plain language summary might explain that the results are unlikely to be due to chance.
The goal is to improve comprehension, enhance knowledge dissemination, and ultimately facilitate the application of research findings in real-world settings.
Effective plain language summarization often involves a collaborative process, with researchers working closely with communication specialists and representatives from the target audiences to ensure clarity and relevance.
Moreover, the use of feedback mechanisms allows for iterative improvement, ensuring the summary effectively conveys the salient information in an accessible format.
Framing and Messaging The way research findings are presented profoundly influences how they are interpreted and ultimately accepted by the intended audience.
This is a cornerstone principle of framing theory, eloquently articulated by Entman .
who highlights the selective process through which information is highlighted or suppressed, shaping the audience's understanding.
Effective framing isn't just about presenting data.
it's about crafting messages that resonate deeply with the target audience's values, beliefs, and priorities (Scheufele, 1.
This requires a nuanced understanding of the audience's Volume 3.
Issue 3, 2025 Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim worldview and tailoring the message accordingly.
For instance, promoting educational interventions solely with statistical significance might not be as persuasive as focusing on cost-effectiveness for fiscally-conscious policymakers, or improved student outcomes for educators concerned with student well-being.
This strategic approach ensures the research's practical implications are highlighted, making it more relevant and actionable.
Consider the work of Nisbet and Mooney .
who demonstrated how framing climate change in terms of economic impacts, rather than solely environmental ones, can significantly increase public engagement and support for policy action.
Storytelling and Narrative Narratives are invaluable tools for conveying complex research findings in a manner that's both memorable and engaging (Connelly et al.
, 2.
Rather than relying solely on abstract data and technical jargon, employing anecdotes, personal stories, and compelling case studies can humanize the research, making it more relatable and impactful for a wider audience, including policymakers and the general public.
This approach moves beyond simply presenting facts to building emotional connections, fostering trust in the research evidence (Green & Brock, 2.
For example, a study on the effectiveness of a public health intervention might be more persuasive if it includes the personal story of an individual whose life was positively impacted by the program.
This creates empathy and makes the research's impact tangible.
The effectiveness of narrative communication is bolstered by research demonstrating that stories are processed differently in the brain, enhancing memorability and emotional impact compared to purely factual presentations (Mar, 2.
Furthermore, the use of real-world examples, particularly case studies that detail implementation challenges and successes, can increase the credibility and applicability of the research findings (Yin, 2.
Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration Successful knowledge translation (KT) necessitates a deeply human-centered approach, moving beyond simply disseminating research findings to actively engaging with all stakeholders throughout the entire research lifecycle (Lavis et al.
, 2.
This isn't a onesize-fits-all approach.
rather, it requires a nuanced understanding of the diverse needs and perspectives of policymakers, educators, parents, community members, and researchers For instance, a participatory action research (PAR) project involving a lowincome community might begin with community forums to identify pressing health International Journal of Humanities.
Education, and Social Sciences Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim concerns, shaping the research questions collaboratively .
Cornwall & Jewkes, 1.
This collaborative design ensures that the research directly addresses relevant issues and avoids producing irrelevant or even harmful outcomes.
Furthermore, involving stakeholders in the data analysis and interpretation phase fosters trust and ownership of the findings (Greenhalgh et al.
, 2.
This participatory process significantly increases the likelihood of research uptake and implementation, as recommendations are tailored to the specific context and resonate with the experiences of those most affected.
The impact of this collaboration can be assessed using frameworks like the RE-AIM model (Reach.
Effectiveness.
Adoption.
Implementation.
Maintenanc.
to evaluate the reach and sustainability of the intervention (Glasgow et al.
, 1.
Media and Communication Channels Effective dissemination of research findings requires a strategic approach to communication, acknowledging that a "one-size-fits-all" strategy is unlikely to reach diverse audiences effectively (Brossard et al.
, 2.
The choice of communication channels must align with the target audience's media consumption habits and preferences.
For example, a policy brief might be the most effective way to reach policymakers, while infographics and social media campaigns may be more suitable for engaging the general public .
ee, e.
, the work of the National Institutes of Health, which employs diverse strategie.
Press releases targeting science journalists can expand awareness within mainstream media, thereby broadening the impact of the research.
Public forums and community events offer opportunities for direct dialogue and feedback, crucial for building trust and fostering Furthermore, partnerships with trusted community leaders and organizations can significantly amplify the reach and impact of KT efforts.
for example, collaborating with a local health clinic to disseminate findings to their patient population.
Measuring the effectiveness of the diverse communication channels used requires monitoring metrics such as website traffic, social media engagement, media coverage, and feedback from A multi-channel approach, meticulously planned and continuously evaluated, is essential for maximizing reach and impact.
Theoretical Framework:
Three relevant theories provide a framework for understanding effective communication of educational research:
Volume 3.
Issue 3, 2025 Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim .
Diffusion of Innovations Theory (Rogers, 2.
: This theory explains how innovations .
n this case, research finding.
are adopted by individuals and groups.
identifies factors influencing adoption, such as the relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability of the innovation.
Understanding these factors helps tailor communication strategies to effectively disseminate research findings and encourage their uptake.
For example, highlighting the relative advantages of evidence-based practices can facilitate their adoption by educators.
Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1.
: This theory emphasizes the role of observation, imitation, and modeling in learning and behavior change.
It suggests that individuals are more likely to adopt new practices if they observe others successfully implementing them.
Communicating research findings through case studies, testimonials, and examples of successful implementation can therefore enhance adoption rates.
The Elaboration Likelihood Model (Petty & Cacioppo, 1.
: This model posits that persuasion occurs through two routes: the central route .
nvolving careful consideration of the messag.
and the peripheral route .
elying on superficial cues, such as source credibility or emotional appeal.
Effective communication strategies should consider both routes, providing strong evidence and arguments while also using persuasive language and visuals to enhance engagement.
For example, emphasizing the credibility of researchers and using compelling narratives can increase the persuasiveness of the message.
METHODOLOGY
This study employed a qualitative research design using a document analysis The data source comprised 80 online documents related to educational research in Nigeria, accessed through government websites .
Federal Ministry of Education.
National Bureau of Statistic.
, academic databases .
Google Scholar.
ResearchGat.
, and reputable news outlets covering education in Nigeria.
The documents included research reports, policy briefs, articles, and websites showcasing educational initiatives.
The selection criteria focused on documents published within the last five years, containing information relevant to the communication of educational research to various stakeholders.
Data analysis involved thematic analysis, identifying recurring themes and patterns related to communication challenges, effective strategies, engagement methods, and evaluation International Journal of Humanities.
Education, and Social Sciences Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Based on the online desk research methodology, the following data and analysis are presented, and with the aim of addressing each research question.
The data are presented in tables for clarity, reflecting themes that emerged from the various online sources.
Table 1: Key Challenges in Communicating Educational Research in Nigeria Relevance/Frequency in Online Sources Challenge Description Technical Jargon & Complexity Research academic language, making it difficult for non-specialists .
Frequently Mentioned Limited Access Dissemination Channels Findings often behind paywalls .
or only presented at academic conferences, not Frequently Mentioned Mismatch Policymaking/Implementation Cycles Research timelines .
often don't align with political/policy cycles or urgent practical needs of educators/parents.
Often Mentioned Lack of Trust/Credibility & Relevance Policymakers/practitioners may view research as too theoretical, irrelevant to their context, or not trustworthy.
Often Mentioned Limited Researchers Researchers often lack training or incentives for translating and communicating findings to nonacademic audiences.
Moderately Mentioned Policymakers, educators, or capacity/time to understand and apply research findings.
Moderately Mentionhed Policy decisions influenced considerations, lobbying, or immediate crises than research Frequently Mentioned .
specially Policymaker.
Capacity Limited Capacity Stakeholders Political Factors & Competing Priorities Volume 3.
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Roslyn Edim Edim Description Relevance/Frequency in Online Sources Infrastructure Barriers Limited internet access or digital literacy in some areas hinders online dissemination Moderately Mentioned .
specially Public/Parent.
Language & Cultural Barriers Research primarily in English.
need for translation and culturally appropriate messaging for wider public.
Less Frequently, but Mentioned .
specially for Parents/Publi.
Fragmented Ecosystem Lack of coordinated platforms or mechanisms for sharing institutions and stakeholders.
Moderately Mentioned Challenge Research Analysis of Table 1: The findings indicate that the challenges are multi-faceted, spanning issues of language, access, timing, trust, capacity, and the broader political/infrastructural context.
The prominence of "Technical Jargon & Complexity," "Limited Access," and "Mismatch with Cycles" suggests fundamental disconnects in how research is produced and disseminated versus how it needs to be consumed.
"Political Factors" highlight external barriers inherent in policy adoption.
The mentions of capacity limitations on both the researcher and stakeholder sides point to a need for targeted training and support.
The challenges related to "Infrastructure" and "Language/Cultural Barriers" are particularly relevant in the diverse and sometimes resource-limited context of Nigeria.
Table 2: Effective Communication Strategies for Educational Research in Nigeria Effectiveness/Frequency in Online Sources Strategy Description Plain Language Summaries & Policy Briefs Concise, non-technical summaries highlighting key findings and policy implications.
Highly Effective Mentione.
Visual Communication Infographics, videos summarizing complex data and findings.
Effective (Increasingly Mentione.
(Frequently International Journal of Humanities.
Education, and Social Sciences Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim Effectiveness/Frequency in Online Sources Strategy Description Direct Engagement (Workshops.
Meeting.
Face-to-face presentations for specific groups .
, policymakers, teacher.
Highly Effective Mentione.
Leveraging Trusted Intermediaries Working with reputable NGOs, community leaders, professional (NUT) disseminate findings.
Highly Effective (Often Mentione.
Utilizing Diverse Media Channels Radio.
TV, newspapers, and platforms, in addition to traditional reports.
Effective (Frequently Mentioned, especially Radio/TV for publi.
Tailoring Messages to Audiences Adapting content, format, and language based on the needs, interests, and capacity of each target group.
Highly Effective (Often Mentione.
Developing Practical Tools & Guidance Translating actionable guides, frameworks, or resources for educators and Effective (Moderately Mentione.
Early & Ongoing Engagement Involving stakeholders from the research design phase, not just at Highly Effective (Often Mentioned, policymakers/educator.
(Frequently Analysis of Table 2: The findings underscore the importance of active, tailored, and multi-format communication.
Strategies that simplify information ("Plain Language," "Visuals"), facilitate direct interaction ("Direct Engagement"), and leverage existing trusted networks ("Trusted Intermediaries," "Diverse Media") appear most effective.
The emphasis on "Tailoring Messages" and "Early & Ongoing Engagement" highlights the need for a stakeholder-centric approach rather than a one-size-fits-all dissemination model.
The data suggests that a mix of traditional media .
ital for wider public reac.
and digital tools .
rowing importanc.
is necessary in Nigeria.
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Roslyn Edim Edim Table 3: Engaging Stakeholders for Evidence-Based Decision-Making and Understanding in Nigeria Engagement Method Description Target Audience.
Applicability/Frequency in Online Sources Formal sessions specifically for policymakers to present Policymakers Highly Applicable (Frequently Mentione.
Workshops & Professional Development Sessions educators/school leaders findings into practical classroom strategies.
Educators.
School Leaders Highly Applicable (Frequently Mentione.
Community Town Halls & Meetings Gatherings findings with parents and the public in accessible language and settings.
Parents.
General Public Applicable (Often Mentioned, especially by NGO.
Online Portals & Knowledge Hubs Centralized websites or platforms hosting research summaries, policy briefs, and related resources.
All Stakeholders Applicable Mentioned.
Involving Stakeholders in Research Co-designing data collection, involving All Stakeholders Highly Applicable (Often Mentioned, especially for Partnerships Government Agencies Collaborating directly with ministries or agencies on research projects and dissemination efforts.
Policymakers.
Gov.
Officials Highly Applicable Mentione.
Media Appearances & Public Lectures Researchers participating in talk shows, writing opeds, giving public lectures General Public.
Parents.
Educators Applicable Mentione.
Leveraging PTAs Community Leaders Utilizing existing parentteacher associations and Parents.
General Public Highly Applicable Mentione.
Policy Dialogues Briefings (Increasingly (Often (Moderately (Often International Journal of Humanities.
Education, and Social Sciences Kalita Joseph Aruku.
Ushie Charles Utsu.
Anthony Nku Obi.
Roslyn Edim Edim Analysis of Table 3: The findings indicate that effective engagement requires tailored approaches for different groups.
Direct interactions ("Policy Dialogues," "Workshops," "Community Meetings") are crucial for fostering understanding and trust.
"Involving Stakeholders in Research" is highlighted as a powerful method for ensuring relevance and buy-in from the outset.
Leveraging existing structures like "Partnerships with Government Agencies" and "PTAs/Community Leaders" appears particularly effective for navigating the Nigerian context.
While "Online Portals" are increasingly relevant, their reach is limited by infrastructure.
Table 4: Best Practices for Evaluating Research Communication Effectiveness in Nigeria What it Measures Mention/Feasibility in Online Sources Evaluation Practice Description Tracking Dissemination Metrics Monitoring website counts, social media mentions, attendance at events.
Reach Exposure Surveys & Interviews with Stakeholders Asking policymakers, directly about their use of research.
Understanding.
Use.
Perceived Relevance.
Impact Highly Applicable (Often Mentioned as desirabl.
Monitoring Policy Changes & Program Adoption Tracking if/how research findings are policies, curriculum.
Uptake Policy Impact Desired but Challenging (Often Mentioned as difficult to attribut.
Tracking Citations in Policy Documents/Reports Identifying if research government reports, policy papers, or Uptake Influence Formal Processes Applicable but Limited (Less Frequently Mentioned historicall.
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Roslyn Edim Edim Evaluation Practice Description What it Measures Collecting Anecdotal Evidence/Case Studies Gathering stories or examples of how research findings were used or made a difference .
, in a Impact Practice Decision-Making .
ualitative Mention/Feasibility in Online Sources Analysis of Table 4: Table 4 outlines a range of evaluation practices applicable to assessing the effectiveness of research communication in Nigeria.
These practices vary in their feasibility and the type of impact they measure.
While tracking dissemination metrics is relatively straightforward and useful for gauging reach, more in-depth methods like surveys and interviews with stakeholders are highly applicable for understanding awareness and perceived relevance.
Measuring the ultimate impact of research communication through policy changes and program adoption appears challenging due to attribution Tracking citations offers another angle on uptake, but its historical prevalence is Finally, collecting anecdotal evidence provides valuable qualitative insights into the practical impact of research.
CONCLUSION
Communicating educational research effectively in Nigeria requires a multifaceted The challenges identified highlight the need for tailored messaging, leveraging available technologies, and bridging the gap between researchers and stakeholders.
Effective communication strategies involve simplifying complex information, utilizing diverse channels, and fostering collaborative relationships.
Robust evaluations are crucial to demonstrate impact and inform future communication efforts.
Recommendations: