Innovative research with real-world impact
Research at VCC is rooted in real-world impact. Our applied research explores pressing questions in teaching, health, accessibility, and more. Faculty and staff pursue inquiry that improves lives, strengthens industries, and reflects the diverse communities we serve.
What is applied research?
Applied research at VCC means inquiry with practical purpose. It bridges theory and practice to support community, industry, and classroom outcomes.
- Often collaborative, including partnerships with other institutions
- Grounded in real-world needs
- Led by faculty and staff across departments
- Funded through internal and external sources
How to conduct research
1
Prepare your application
Review REB requirements and gather all supporting documents, including a written informed consent form that uses plain language and meets VCC standards
2
Submit for review
Submit your completed REB application by the posted submission date. Applications are reviewed according to project risk level and REB meeting dates.
3
Wait for approval before starting
You may not begin recruiting or collecting data until you receive formal approval. Allow 2-4 weeks for review, and revise if requested.
Need help? Contact the VCC library or email REBsupport@vcc.ca for guidance.
Opportunities to collaborate
VCC welcomes collaboration with post-secondary institutions, funders, and community partners.
- Partner with VCC faculty on applied research and innovation
- Collaborate across areas like teaching, health, hospitality, and accessibility
- Institutions wishing to include VCC students in research must complete the REB process
Please contact acopp@vcc.ca if you have any questions.
Apply for funding
Internal funding
Our internal fund provides up to $2,500 per individual project and up to $5,000 for collaborative, interdepartmental initiatives. Applications launch each spring to support literature review, grant prep, knowledge mobilization, and more.
External funding
VCC researchers may access external grants and contracts through initiatives like education-service partnerships or agency-led programs. To support collaborative applied work, explore opportunities via the Partnership Development Office and academic grant programs.
Knowledge sharing
We are building toward open access and improved knowledge mobilization.
- Look for updates as we launch the Borealis repository
- Access past projects through ARCA, our digital archive
Impact of VCC research on the community
Research for students
VCC student researchers bring applied inquiry to life through creative projects, presentations, and real-world impact, spanning everything from digital design research to hands-on classroom innovation
- Celebrate student presentations at events such as VCC’s Teaching, Learning & Research Symposium and departmental showcases.
- Access clear support with research tools and help from librarians, including guides on informed consent, ethics, and citation, by reaching out to acopp@vcc.ca for more information
- Learn essential research skills through courses like Design Research (VCDP 1135), which teach methods such as interviews, surveys, user personas, and mixed-method data analysis
Success stories
Meet the people behind the projects. These profiles highlight VCC researchers who are creating impact through curiosity, collaboration, and applied innovation.
Sessions and events
Each year, the Teaching, Learning & Research Symposium offers a welcoming space for educators, staff, students, and collaborators to share ideas, showcase research, and strengthen community. This free event celebrates innovation in post-secondary learning and reflects VCC’s commitment to accessibility and inclusive practice.