Knowledge Exchange

Knowledge Exchange is the on-going exchange of knowledge, where individuals, universities, industries, public and third-sector organisations collaborate by sharing expertise, insights, and resources. This dynamic process is known as knowledge exchange (KE) and it can to turn new ideas into practical solutions that drive progress, efficiency, value and lead to innovation.

The Knowledge Exchange Concordat defined Knowledge Exchange as:

Knowledge Exchange (KE) is the two-way exchange of knowledge, expertise, and capabilities between higher education institutions (HEIs) and external partners (businesses, government bodies, non-profits, and communities).

The goal is to create social, cultural, and economic benefits. KE includes activities like research commercialisation, consultancy, public engagement, collaborative research, policy advising, and community outreach.

Typical activities include: 

  • Consultancy
  • Professional, short courses and CPD
  • Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) 
  • Public and community engagement
  • Student enterprise

Knowledge exchange accelerates commercialisation by transforming innovative ideas and research into intellectual property that can be licensed or developed into a new spin-out company.

Contact us

Directorate of Research, Innovation and Enterprise

rieenquiries@brookes.ac.uk

Knowledge exchange and impact

Knowledge Exchange is an important mechanism for developing impact from research, supporting engagement with beneficiaries and stakeholders.

Oxford Brookes University supports:

  • Policy impact through research
  • Economic impact through commercialisation
  • Social impact through changes in public attitudes and approaches
two people in an office

Knowledge exchange framework

The Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) offers insights into the knowledge exchange activities of higher education providers (HEPs) in England. ‘Knowledge exchange’ refers to the diverse ways in which HEPs collaborate with external partners. The KEF provides data and explanations on how these institutions engage with businesses, community groups, and other organisations to drive economic and societal benefits.

“This remarkable achievement is a testament to the dedication of our staff in fostering strong partnerships with external organisations, driving positive outcomes for society and the economy both locally and globally. I am particularly proud that, for four consecutive years, we have ranked among the top 10 English universities in generating income from our intellectual property.”

Professor Joe Tah, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation at Oxford Brookes University