This course will provide an overview of the emerging field of implementation science, which is the study of methods to promote the uptake of evidence-based practices and other research evidence in routine care settings in order to improve the quality and effectiveness of health care. Participants will be introduced to the types of research questions, theories, methods, designs, and ethical principles that guide the field. Case examples will focus on applications of implementation science in health and behavioral health, and the course will also draw upon the implementation challenges and opportunities faced by the course attendees. By the end of this course, participants will:

1)   Understand the rationale for implementation science as a response to the “quality chasm” in health care, and be well-acquainted with the basic terminology of implementation science

2)   Gain an understanding of the types of theories and conceptual frameworks that can inform implementation science

3)   Learn about various barriers to the delivery of evidence-based care

4)   Be knowledgeable about the range of implementation strategies available, the evidence-base that guides their use, and how they can be selected and tailored to overcome implementation barriers

5)   Understand the conceptualization and measurement of implementation outcomes and how they differ from clinical and service system outcomes

6)   Learn about the types of methods and designs that can be useful for implementation studies

7)   Understand ethical considerations specific to implementation science

8)   Be familiar with research priorities pertinent to implementation science as identified by federal and private funding agencies as well as leaders in the field

9)   Obtain numerous resources for further reading as well as a list of opportunities for self-study and formal training in implementation science

10)  Examine the role human decision making plays in implementation research.