Research Department

The Research Department regroups two services: UNOSAT, the Operational Satellite Applications Programme, and the Knowledge System Innovation unit (KSI).

UNITAR’s research activities are focused on knowledge systems and their practical application on a variety of learning settings. Knowledge systems are defined as the combination of methodologies, tools and skills required to build, strengthen, use and retain capacity. They take into account capacity development requirements and allow the Institute to focus its interventions on methodologies that are particularly relevant for lifelong learning.

Lifelong learning acknowledges the use of techniques combining informal with more formal instructional learning activities that develop knowledge, skills and attributes linked to particular forms of employment. It is increasingly demand driven, learner centred, cross-cultural, professionally certified, and socially recognized.

As today's knowledge systems are challenged to use new technologies, the Research Department develops innovative approaches to optimize the benefit offered by ICT, such as integrated satellite-based solutions and computing sciences. In that way, the Research Department supports the Institute’s training activities through the provision of learning environments that utilize modern methods, pedagogies, and tools, including instructional technology, knowledge management structures, and instructional design frameworks to respond to the needs of adult learners. The major goal is to facilitate the increase, efficiency and outreach of the Institute’s capacity development activities.