Online SLP in Research Design Gets a Major Overhaul
The Short Learning Programme (SLP) in Research Design at North-West University (NWU) has long been a quiet lifeline for researchers navigating one of the most challenging stages of their academic journey. First developed in 2020 in response to a shifting postgraduate landscape, the Online SLP in Research Design has now undergone a significant revision to keep pace with developments in research practice, digital learning technologies, and evolving postgraduate training needs.
The programme is built around three interrelated pillars: values, enablement, and efficacy — aiming to produce postgraduate students and researchers who not only understand scientific methods, but who are confident and competent in applying them in their own work.
What’s Changed?
The 2026 revision touches nearly every corner of the programme. Key updates include:
Platform migration: The programme has moved from eFundi to a new Learning Management System (LMS), with assessments currently being migrated. Zoom has also been replaced with Microsoft Teams, aligning with NWU’s institutional strategy and reducing costs.
Content clean-up: Presenter content from individuals no longer affiliated with NWU has been removed, outdated Dropbox links have been cleared, and old videos and documents relating to Optentia and postgraduate studies at NWU have been updated or replaced.
AI literacy added: In a significant new addition, the revised SLP now includes dedicated content on the use of artificial intelligence in research — covering critical thinking and the responsible use of AI tools. Specific platforms introduced include Elicit AI, Zotero, ASReview, and NotebookLM.
Statistics unit reworked: Study Unit 9 (SU9) on the use of statistics has been restructured, with a renewed focus on JASP, Mplus, jamovi, and RStudio, alongside a revised approach to topics, techniques, and time allocation.
New Design Science Research section: A brand-new Study Unit 8 (SU8) on Design Science Research has been introduced, reflecting growing interest in this methodology within the research community.
A special thank you was extended to Dr Lance Bunt for his continued support in presenting the course on Rise.
The Online SLP in Research Design is offered through North-West University and is designed to build research capability at postgraduate and staff members levels.
