This pre-pilot study explored the usefulness of a knowledge utilization framework comprised of Knott and Wildavsky's (1980) seven stages of knowledge use and Stone's (2002) three routes to knowledge use to investigate the gap between reading disabilities research and teachers' self-reported use of that research. Semi-structured interviews of ten elementary school teachers were undertaken. A qualitative analysis of the interview data indicated that the framework was effective for categorizing and interpreting the interview responses. Findings indicated that a divide between research and reported practice potentially begins with an inadequate reception of research, and that a divide is exacerbated by limited reading and implementation of research knowledge by teachers. The knowledge utilization framework also assisted in identifying obstacles to teachers' reported use of research. These obstacles were successfully categorized according to the variables of supply, demand, and context. The combined framework of knowledge utilization has potential for studying the use of research by teachers.