Scholarship and the Dissemination of Research

Demonstrating scholarship involves imparting knowledge that results from study and research in a particular field and the dissemination of this knowledge. In this chapter we discuss the initial steps following data collection and analysis (determining the audience, defining 2–3 main points/conclusions, identifying limitations and biases, deciding if the conclusion is interesting or unique). Next we describe three methods of research dissemination, namely publication of research in a peer-reviewed journal, presentation of research at a national and/or regional scientific assembly, and dissemination through non-traditional forms (workshops/seminars, news media, social media, issue or policy briefs, e-mail lists and distribution, and Wikipedia). Lastly, the author discusses important concepts in research dissemination, such as impact factor, traditional subscription journals vs. open access journals, and indexing.