Program Overview

The Community-Based Applied Interdisciplinary Research (CBAIR) course is a unique program that allows graduate and undergraduate students to work together on real-world projects for community organizations. This course is designed to provide students with advanced research skills and the opportunity to apply them to practical problems in the community.

Course Details

• The CBAIR course is open to third-year undergraduate students and higher, as well as Master of Business Administration and Master of Educational Leadership candidates.
• The course takes place over the Fall and Spring semesters, with a two-day orientation session in late August and a weekend retreat in October.
• Students work in teams of 4-8 on research projects designed and carried out by the students themselves, with guidance and support from CBAIR faculty.
• The course focuses on developing essential skills such as collaboration, effective communication, applied research design, client engagement, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary competence.

Research Areas

• Past research projects have included:
  • The Lived Experience of Those Accessing Social Services
  • Living Digitally in a Physical World: Youth perceptions of community and volunteerism
  • Thriving in Action (TIA) Program Study
  • From the Margins to the Centre: Equity Seeking Groups Perceptions and Suggestions of Mental Health and Wellness
• Students have the opportunity to present their research at VIU's CREATE conference and other international conferences.

Course Credit

• Undergraduate students receive 9 credits for CBAIR upon successful completion of both INTR 401 and INTR 402.
• Graduate students receive credit towards their thesis or applied project upon successful completion of CBAIR.

Faculty

• The CBAIR course is taught by three faculty members from different departments, who provide guidance, feedback, and support to students throughout the course.

Campus Locations

• The program is offered at Vancouver Island University's Nanaimo (main campus), Cowichan, and tiwmawtx (Powell River) campuses.

Vancouver Island University

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Overview:

Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a public university located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, business, education, health, science, technology, and trades. VIU is known for its commitment to student success, providing a supportive learning environment and a variety of services to help students thrive.

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Services Offered:

VIU offers a comprehensive range of services to support students, including:

Academic Advising:

Personalized guidance on program selection, course planning, and academic progress.

Financial Aid and Awards:

Scholarships, bursaries, loans, and other financial assistance options.

Career Services:

Career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Library:

Extensive collection of books, journals, databases, and online resources.

Health and Wellness Services:

Counseling, health promotion, and fitness programs.

Student Housing:

On-campus residence options for students seeking a convenient and supportive living environment.

Campus Recreation:

Opportunities for physical activity, sports, and recreational activities.

Campus Store:

Supplies, textbooks, and VIU merchandise.

Food Services:

Dining options on campus, including cafes, restaurants, and vending machines.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

VIU fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community, offering students a variety of opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, connect with peers, and develop their personal and professional skills. Students can participate in:

Student Clubs and Organizations:

A wide range of clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests.

Campus Events:

Social gatherings, workshops, performances, and guest speaker events.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Opportunities to give back to the community and gain valuable experience.

Athletics:

Participation in varsity sports and recreational leagues.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Location:

Situated on beautiful Vancouver Island, offering access to stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Small Class Sizes:

Personalized attention from faculty and a more intimate learning environment.

Supportive Community:

A welcoming and inclusive campus community that fosters a sense of belonging.

Practical Experience:

Emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world applications.

Career-Focused Programs:

Programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in their chosen fields.

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Academic Programs:

VIU offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:

Bachelor's Degrees:

In various disciplines, including arts, business, education, health, science, and technology.

Master's Degrees:

In areas such as business administration, education, and geographic information systems.

Diplomas and Certificates:

In a wide range of fields, including trades, technology, and professional development.

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Other:

VIU has three campuses located in Nanaimo, Cowichan, and Powell River, providing students with a variety of campus environments to choose from. The university also has a strong commitment to Indigenous education and offers a variety of programs and services specifically designed for Indigenous students.