Knowledge generation refers to the process of developing information through the systematic review and analysis of findings produced by the prevention research field. It is not the role of CARS to generate the knowledge, rather it is to monitor the field to identify and assess new information. Equally important to this identification process achieved through active interactions with the research community and prevention literature is the ability to synthesize the information.

If training, TA, and products are to reflect the constantly evolving research, synthesizing this information in a form that is accessible and relevant to practitioners is essential. There is a central need to review and summarize key findings in order to ensure the most relevant and current information is presented succinctly to the field. It is also important to prepare clear statements of the ways in which research findings apply to practice, and to prepare guidelines and skill training for implementing research findings in day to day prevention activities. In the past decade, CARS has developed this capacity to scan research and synthesize findings in user friendly quarterly publications (e.g., Prevention Tactics), and our ongoing development of training, TA and informational materials emphasizes concrete guides to evidence-based practice.

CARS has developed a system that ensures science-based content stays current in the rapidly evolving knowledge base on prevention strategies, models and practices. Our plan, based on many years of providing TA and Training services to the prevention field, is designed to assist communities as well as the statewide prevention system (e.g. county offices, community-based organizations, coalitions, faith community, school systems, AOD service providers, state agencies and prevention professionals) in collaboratively building local prevention capacity. Specifically to select and apply scientifically defensible substance abuse prevention strategies, programs, and policies to obtain the desired results.

Though we engage in broad-based dissemination, CARS focus is application, the process of turning information into practical procedures that are put into practice in the field. A primary purpose for CARS is the identification of available science-based knowledge from a variety of sources including expert consultants; synthesize the information, ensure that it is packaged into practical, user-friendly formats, and facilitate its adoption by the field through high quality training and technical assistance, products and publications.