Learners are second-year undergraduate students with foundational knowledge of social research and research methodology. They are equipped to design and conduct qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research; develop research questions and proposals; perform literature reviews; collect and analyze data; apply ethical research practices; and communicate findings through professional reports and presentations.

Through this experience, learners can help organizations investigate real-world challenges by conducting research, evaluating existing policies and practices, gathering and interpreting stakeholder insights, identifying evidence-based best practices, and providing actionable recommendations. They offer strong analytical, critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills to support informed organizational decision-making.

Expected Outcomes for Learners

Learners will apply research methodology in a real-world setting by collaborating directly with an employer to investigate an organizational challenge. They will strengthen their skills in research design, literature review, stakeholder engagement, data collection, data analysis, ethical research practices, and professional communication while producing evidence-based recommendations. Through the experience, learners will gain practical experience managing client relationships, working in teams, and presenting research findings to support organizational decision-making.

Employer Deliverables

Employers will receive a research-based deliverable tailored to their organizational needs, such as a research report, policy review or improvement recommendations, literature review, stakeholder or community needs assessment, program evaluation, or evidence-based recommendations. Deliverables will include a clear description of the research approach, key findings, analysis of the data collected, and practical, actionable recommendations that organizations can use to inform future planning, policy development, or operational improvements.