ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that the middle tier of a research-informed ecosystem serves a much more crucial function than policy makers and practitioners typically consider. It shows that organisations, structures, and initiatives at the middle level play a crucial role in this process. The chapter examines one of the middle-level initiatives from Ontario, Canada. It draws on Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory to emphasise the degrees of influence throughout Knowledge Network for Applied Education Research (KNAER) and demonstrates the middle tier’s central role in connecting the components. It focuses on KNAER because it demonstrates the importance of taking a systems approach to knowledge mobilisation when cultivating a research-engaged ecosystem. The chapter considers KNAER’s evolving role in a research-engaged ecosystem to argue for the crucial importance of cultivating dynamic, structured, sustainable and connected initiatives and organisations at middle level. From 2015 to 2020, KNAER II has and continues to support thematic knowledge networks to enhance knowledge mobilisation on clear and specific priority themes.
