Processes

Information for Parents/Guardians about Research Conducted at Sun Life Centre for Healthy Communities

Research Focused on Youth

The Sun Life Centre for Healthy Communities (CHC) is interested in what our participants think! We know that youth have important insights to share that will help us deliver innovative and effective wellness programs and healthy living initiatives. This is why our team regularly engages in research to better understand youth experiences with CHC.

Your child may have an opportunity to take part in a program evaluation survey or group interview. CHC always obtains the consent of parents/guardians before inviting their child/children to participate in a research project. We also seek child assent to participate. Participation is voluntary and kids can stop participating at any time or refuse to answer questions without penalty. If your child chooses to participate in a Scoreboard survey, they will earn points that can be banked and redeemed to obtain free items in the Scoreboard 'store.'

Evidence-based Programming

Our mission is to leverage evidence-based sport for development programming to cultivate wellness resources and initiatives - fostering self-sustaining, vibrant, and healthy communities. CHC programs are based on the latest research findings. We believe evidence-based programming leads to effective practice and positive outcomes for our participants!

Information for Researchers

CHC is committed to holistic, integrated research to inform the development of wellness programs, resources, and initiatives related to healthy, active living communities. The CHC team is pleased to support researchers conducting projects that align with the Centre’s mission, values, strategic goals, and research objectives.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in CHC Research

CHC is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in programming and in research. The Centre aims to engage in EDI research practices that better understand, identify, prevent, and remove barriers to inclusion and full participation in physical activity of equity deserving groups. Furthermore, CHC promotes increasing representation of underrepresented groups including (but not limited to), women and gender minorities, Indigenous Peoples (First Nations, Inuit and Métis), racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities in the design and process of research.

Conducting Research with CHC

1. CHC Research Policies and Procedures Guidebook

CHC has developed a guidebook to provide information and direction to individuals applying for CHC research funding, interested in obtaining CHC administrative data, seeking approval to undertake research related to the Centre, and/or currently conducting research associated with the Centre. Please consult for more detailed information about conducting research with CHC.

2. Use of Northdale Science Research Centre

The Northdale Science Research Centre contains gym (NC102), studio (NC115), and interview room (NC115B) space. Laurier full-time faculty members and contract teaching faculty (currently on an active teaching contract) must submit a written application to request the use of spaces in NSRC. Students wishing to book shared CHC spaces must have their supervisor submit a request on their behalf.

A Gym Booking Form can be accessed online. In addition to completing the online Gym Booking Form, anyone requesting gym access must also complete the Faculty Member Application Check List to confirm they understand the booking procedure. A new application must be submitted for each program or project for which they are requesting space within NSRC. Individuals who submit more than one application will be asked to prioritize their projects and preferred time slots. Applications to book space(s) are due by 4:30 pm on the first business day in December (Winter Semester), August (Fall Semester) and May (Spring/Summer Semester).

3. Research Equipment

CHC equipment may be requested and used free of charge for research purposes that support the strategic research objectives of the Centre. The Centre possesses a BOD POD®. pedometers, and Fitbits. Requests to use CHC equipment can be directed to the CHC Manager. All CHC equipment must be properly used and returned in good condition. Researchers are required to complete a written agreement prior to use of CHC equipment that outlines the policy for lost or damaged equipment.

Support for CHC Related Research

Research Support

Each fiscal year, CHC will support various research projects directly related to CHC activities, resources, programs, and/or initiatives that align with the Centre’s mission, vision, pillars, and research objectives. Researchers may apply for a CHC Research Support Grant by completing a Research Support Grant Application. Funds requested may range from $3,000 to $9,000 per project. Depending on the number of applications and funds requested, the number of funded projects may vary each year. CHC aims to fund as many applications as possible.

CHC Research Funding Opportunities

Exploring Indigenous Perspectives: A call for Literature Review Submissions on Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity, Recreation, Sport for Development, and Wellness

Funding Application Process

Researchers are required to complete the CHC Research Support Grant application form. Applications will be accepted by the first business day in October and February to be reviewed by the CHC Research Advisory Committee. For more information, including evaluation criterion, please consult the CHC Research Policies and Procedures Guidebook.

CHC Annual Conference

CHC may hold a conference highlighting the research conducted by the membership. Faculty conducting research with CHC are asked to present their work. Student researchers are also invited to share their findings at the conference.

Links for Researchers

E: sunlifechc@wlu.ca
Office Location: 75 University Ave. West