Managing KT in theArts and Humanities

Andrew LinnSheffield

Assumption…

1. KT is a Good ThingGood Thing

Assumption…

“AHRC operates in an environment where KT and innovation issues hold an elevated status within government policy frameworks.” (AHRC KT STRATEGY 2008 – 2011: 2)

Counter-evidence…

“I’m not sure if it is a good idea to teach KE in this discipline” (Lecturer, English Literature)

“Don’t know if it’s a good idea…Hard pushed to see how it will be useful” (Professor, Philosophy)

Assumption…

2. A&H research is not transferable

Assumption…

“Academics and the outside world don’t talk the same language” (Senior Lecturer, Management)

“Lots of academics have no contacts or can’t explain what they’re doing to policy makers etc.” (Professor, Landscape)

Assumption…

3. A&H negatively disposed towards KT

Counter-evidence…

“People need to believe that KE is a good and exciting thing to do, not just because it attracts funding or fits into the organisational strategy” (Senior Lecturer, History)

“Definitely worth doing ” (Senior Lecturer, Hispanic Studies)

Evidence…

• Development of PG KT module at Sheffield• Views of 48 stakeholders elicited• Not scientific, but…• Invaluable insights to help in managing KT

Managing KT…

• Believe in KT in A&H• We have what people

want• The role of the Public

Intellectual

Noam Chomsky

Managing KT…

1. ‘Missionaries’2. Examples3. Bottom-up leadership4. Hearts and minds5. Relevance

Adam and Eve: Knowledge Transfer © Ronald Forbes