Applied Research at NorQuest College

The mission of applied research at NorQuest College is to foster faculty engagement in inquiry, scholarship, and research activities to enhance educational practices for student growth and success. NorQuest is committed to enhancing teaching and learning through applied research. Through applied research, the College strengthens its ability to meet the need of its learners through partnerships with public and private education service providers, companies, government departments, community and industry organizations, and employers.

Our commitment to research is built on areas of expertise and innovation, on strong and growing partnerships. Applied research at NorQuest College is focused on solutions for the needs of learners, communities, industries, and government. Research projects and products are focused on contributing positively to Canadian social and economic development goals.

Applied research at NorQuest relates to three broad research themes.

1. Pathways to Work and Study for Diverse Learners

One of NorQuest’s strengths is providing a variety of pathways for learners to achieve academic and employment goals and enabling access to post-secondary education for learners with diverse needs. Existing clusters of expertise include innovative support models, resources, and strategies to expedite learning pathways for faster entry into the workplace or further academic study.

2. Flexible Delivery of Educational Opportunities

NorQuest has a long tradition of distance delivery and multiple distribution systems of programming involving multiple campuses, regional learning centres, and distance programs.  More recently, opportunities have expanded via partnerships with rural communities and through online and hybrid learning. Programs are offered in these multiple delivery modes to make educational opportunities accessible to learners.

3. Workplace Learning for Innovation and Development

Canadians require ongoing opportunities for learning to remain competitive locally and globally while working. Employers require staff development opportunities for an increasingly diverse workforce. Emerging industry sectors need to establish standards for training and certification standards for skilled workers. Partnerships between NorQuest College and Alberta businesses are yielding innovative models of workplace learning and opportunities to support innovation and development in small- and medium-sized Alberta businesses.

 

Last updated: July 11, 2011