ARFS Training Academy is developing two separate self-paced courses: practical training for people carrying out field assignments, and a more comprehensive course in research methods. Each has its own learning outcomes, assessments and ARFS-issued certificate.
Field Researcher Training
4–6 hours · Practical · Self-paced
Learn to conduct interviews, surveys, observations and other field assignments professionally. Module 1 — Fieldwork Ready takes approximately 60 minutes and must be passed before any field assignment. After a project-specific briefing and ARFS approval, learners may begin suitable supervised assignments while completing Modules 2–4 at their own pace.
The full course covers interviewing and surveys, field data collection and observation, and quality control and reporting. Passing Module 1 establishes readiness status only; the ARFS Certificate in Field Research Practice requires completion of the entire course and assessments.
Coming Soon
Introduction to Research Methods and Fieldwork
12–16 hours · In-depth · Self-paced
Explore how research is designed, conducted and reported. This separate course contains four modules and 12 lessons covering research foundations, research planning and sampling, reliable field methods, data analysis and professional reporting.
A practical Rural Training Needs Mini-Study serves as the final project. The ARFS Certificate in Research Methods and Fieldwork is awarded after all modules, activities and the final project meet the required standard.
Coming Soon
How Training Works
Choose the course that matches your goals. Both courses are self-paced and use practical lessons, exercises and assessments, with feedback and opportunities to improve. Each course has its own completion requirements and certificate.
Field Researcher Training: This 4–6 hour course begins with Fieldwork Ready, a required 60-minute module. After passing that module, a participant may be considered for supervised field assignments, but only after completing a briefing for the specific project and receiving ARFS approval. The remaining modules can be completed at their own pace. The full course and its assessments must be completed to earn the course certificate. Training does not guarantee an assignment.
Introduction to Research Methods and Fieldwork: This separate 12–16 hour self-paced course covers research foundations, planning and sampling, field methods, analysis and professional reporting. Learners complete practical activities and a Rural Training Needs Mini-Study to earn the ARFS Certificate in Research Methods and Fieldwork.
Training at No Cost: Both courses are planned at no cost to learners. Each awards its own ARFS certificate after all requirements are completed. ARFS certificates are not independent professional accreditations.
Availability: Both courses are in development. Enrolment is not yet open.