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.
Research ethics approval at VCC
The Research Ethics Board (REB) is responsible for ensuring that any research involving humans meets the highest ethical standards. If you have questions about applying for research ethics approval, please contact [email protected] for more information.
VCC REB request for ethics review
REC amendment
Adverse event report
Informed consent guidelines and template
The course-based research ethics application may be used for courses where students carry out projects of a similar scope under supervision of an instructor. In these cases, the students do not need to apply for individual REB approval. One application covers all eligible projects with human participants, as long as they fit within the parameters of the course-based application and the assignment is described in the class syllabus.
- REB application form for course-based review
- Course-based review guidelines
Studies that involve no more risk to participants than they would encounter in their everyday lives are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Please submit your application and all attachments to the REB two to three weeks before your data collection start date.
For applicants submitting a study that involves more risk than participants would encounter in their everyday lives, please contact the REB Chair and provide all materials two to three weeks in advance of the meeting dates below to ensure sufficient time for a full board review:
- September 17, 2026
- October 15, 2026
- November 19, 2026
REB annual report 2023-24
Research support at VCC
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 and 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 [email protected] 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.
2026 symposium
- View student posters