Embedded Researchers as Part of a Whole Systems Approach to Physical Activity: Reflections and Recommendations

Abstract

Whole systems approaches are increasingly being advocated as a way of responding to complex public health priorities such as obesity and physical inactivity. Due to the complex and adaptive nature of such systems, researchers are increasingly being embedded within host organisations (i.e., those which facilitate the whole systems approach) to work with key stakeholders to illuminate and understand mechanisms of change and develop a culture of continuous improvement. While previous literature has reported on the benefits and challenges of embedded researchers in health care, little is known about the experiences and learnings of those situated within these complex whole systems approaches. In this paper, we present our reflections of being embedded researchers within four distinct whole systems approaches and outline recommendations and considerations for commissioners working with or seeking support from an embedded researcher.

Navigating the river(s) of systems change: a multi-methods, qualitative evaluation exploring the implementation of a systems approach to physical activity in Gloucestershire, England

“…The embedded nature of this role enabled the researcher to understand the nuance of the WCM programme, and subsequently, was seen to bolster the evaluation effort. 39 …”

“…to understand the nuance of the WCM programme, and subsequently, was seen to bolster the evaluation effort. 39 Further details related to the methodology is available in online supplemental file 1 (COREQ checklist).…”

Child and family experiences of a whole-system approach to physical activity: a citizen science evaluation protocol

“…Literature reviews of evaluations of system approaches to health recommend several approaches and methods; the embedded researcher approach, qualitative inquiry (process evaluation) through a systems thinking lens, systems mapping, network mapping, ripple effects mapping, and dynamic systems modelling (14,17,(21)(22)(23). Such methods are applied in evaluations of whole systems approaches ( (14,17,19,24)). However, to our knowledge, there are no existing guidelines, protocols or evaluation studies reporting on evaluating whole-systems approaches focussed on children and families.…”

“…To address this issue, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Action on Physical Activity (GAPPA) report proposes a systems-based approach, involving cross-government, multi-sectoral partnerships and community engagement (12). To enact effective systems-based approaches, it is recommended that programmes work closely with local people to develop solutions tailored to intended recipients' context and experience (13)(14)(15).…”

“…Therefore, it is essential that children and their families are integral stakeholders within the evaluation of whole-system physical activity approaches. Moreover, including local people promotes a more comprehensive and contextual understanding of what works and for whom (14). At present, previous evaluations of whole system physical activity approaches have not placed children and families at the centre.…”