Foundations of Research Coproduction: 2.1 Conceptualizing and Theorizing for Research Coproduction

This chapter examines the conceptual underpinnings of research coproduction as an approach to research that integrates knowledge users into the knowledge creation process. We begin from the basic premise that research coproduction leads to more comprehensive, inclusive and actionable knowledge to improve people's health status, health and social service utilization, and outcomes. From this premise we explicate the issues or problems that taking a coproduction approach addresses (e.g., tokenism, power, ethics, equity, co-learning, context, sustainability) and consider the concepts and theories that underlie those issues that have provided the foundation of research coproduction. We then consider the value of an overarching theory of research coproduction and describe literature that is working toward that goal by theorizing about research coproduction . Throughout, we provide examples and guidance about the relevance and value of bringing coproduction to implementation processes. We conclude with specific attention to the value of bringing a research coproduction approach to implementation theories and with some reflections on research gaps for future projects.