Introduction to Applied Research for Innovation

The Introduction to Applied Research for Innovation program at Keyano College, offered in partnership with NorQuest College, provides learners with foundational knowledge and practical skills in applied research, innovation, and project planning. Through a series of self-paced online badges, participants will explore topics such as research design, ethics and equity, qualitative and quantitative analysis, program evaluation, and research proposal development.

Program Details

Credential: Micro-Credential - Certificate of Completion (Non-Credit)
Delivery: Self-paced, fully online via iLearn.keyano.ca
Modules: 8 modules (4-7 hours per module)
Term Intakes:

  • July 1 - August 31, 2026
  • September 1 - December 31, 2026
  • January 1 - April 31, 2027
  • May 1 - June 30, 2027

What You’ll Learn

By completing this program, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the foundations and purpose of applied research in real-world settings
  • Apply ethical principles, including equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), within the research process
  • Design and analyze qualitative and quantitative research studies
  • Develop research proposals, budgets, and funding strategies for applied research initiatives
  • Plan and develop applied research projects using industry-informed practices

Course List

  • Foundations of Applied Research (CEIARI100): This badge delves into the foundations of applied research. As learners work through this badge, they will explore what applied research is, differences between types of research, the core steps of applied research, and how to assess research design. Learners will then be provided with various applied research examples to assess.
    4 hours | $72.00

  • Planning Applied Research Project (CEIARI200): This badge offers an introduction to planning for applied research projects. Learners will explore what is involved in establishing a project purpose, reviewing background information, identifying and engaging stakeholders and partners, selecting a research method, and outlining a budget. As learners work through the content, they will explore templates and resources used in the research industry and practice planning skills using real-world examples.
    4 hours | $72.00

  • Research Ethics and EDI (CEIARI300): This badge offers an introduction to the importance of ethics to applied research, including equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). As you work through the badge, you will explore what research ethics is, its relationship to balancing risk and benefit in research, and common issues involving these in the research process. Perhaps most critically, you will then practice communication of research parameters – including risks and benefits – to potential participants through the construction of a basic research ethics information and consent form.
    6 hours | $108.00

  • Qualitative Study Design and Analysis (CEIARI400): This badge offers an introduction to qualitative research study design and analysis. As learners work through this badge, they will explore benefits and limitations of different data collection methods, aspects of qualitative question design, and important considerations during collection, analysis, and reporting. Multiple exemplars are provided to learners throughout so that they can explore real-world applications of their learnings.
    6 hours | $108.00

  • Quantitative Study Design and Analysis (CEIARI500): This badge offers an introduction to quantitative research study design and analysis. As you work through this badge, you will explore what quantitative data is, design essentials for questionnaires and surveys, and best practices for collection, analysis, and reporting. Multiple exemplars are provided to you throughout to explore real-world applications of what you are learning.
    7 hours | $126.00

  • Program Evaluation and Needs Assessment (CEIARI600): This badge offers an introduction to program evaluation and needs assessment. You will explore the main features of program evaluation, the components of needs assessments, the elements of program theory and indicators, and how to design program evaluations. This badge provides multiple exemplars and opportunities to practice these skills.
    4 hours | $72.00
  • Conclusions, Dissemination, and Practical Application (CEIARI700): This badge focuses on the culminating components of applied research: conclusion, dissemination, and practical application. Learners will learn about different methods of knowledge mobilization and application. Following this, they will focus on presenting quantitative and qualitative results, specifically on reporting for quantitative results and storytelling for qualitative results. Throughout the content, learners will be provided multiple opportunities to analyze and evaluate examples.
    4 hours | $72.00
  • Research Proposals and Budgets (CEIARI800): This badge provides essential knowledge for developing strong research proposals and budgets. Learners will explore research funding opportunities, eligibility criteria, and proposal writing strategies. The badge covers budgeting principles, expense estimation, financial guidelines, and justification techniques to ensure compliance with funder requirements. By understanding these skills, learners will be able to create competitive proposals, align research goals with funding priorities, and effectively manage research budgets for successful project execution.
    4 hours | $72.00

Please note: All courses are subject to GST and a $5 tech fee

Keyano College reserves the right to modify the syllabus, curriculum, or schedule of any course/program, or to cancel a course/program entirely, at any time and for any reason. Such changes may be necessary due to unforeseen circumstances, regulatory requirements, or to ensure the highest quality of education.
Students will be notified of any significant changes as soon as possible. Keyano College is not responsible for any inconvenience or disruption caused by these changes. It is the responsibility of the students to stay informed about any updates or modifications to their courses.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Build practical research and innovation skills for today’s evolving workplaces and communities.

Register by completing this form. If you have any questions, please email Registrar@keyano.ca.