Facilitating the use of evidence-based practice in community organizations

Researchers are grappling with the challenges of implementing evidence-based practice in community organizations. This article reviews factors that facilitate the use of evidence-based practice in community settings along with future steps necessary for successful translation of knowledge into community agencies. Social workers are uniquely qualified to address the research-practice gap because of their experience working and conducting research in community organizations. The creation of community-focused learning models that re-invent faculty-agency partnerships are important components of effective implementation. The infusion of evidence-based practice components throughout the social work curriculum is also critical for preparing social workers to implement effective practices.