Open Research Toolkit
The Open Research Toolkit is a collection of self-paced online learning modules designed to help researchers and trainees develop practical skills in Open Science and implement open research practices throughout the research lifecycle.
The Toolkit provides accessible, actionable training that moves beyond theory and focuses on real-world application. Through interactive content, practical examples, and curated resources, learners gain the knowledge and tools needed to incorporate open research practices into their everyday work.
There are currently includes seven modules covering core Open Science concepts and practices relevant to neuroscience research. Modules can be completed independently, allowing learners to engage with content that is most relevant to their research needs, experience level, and interests.
This Toolkit is designed to support broad adoption of Open Science training across institutions. By making these modules openly available, we aim to foster a growing community of researchers, educators, and organizations committed to advancing transparent, rigorous, and reproducible research. We welcome opportunities to collaborate with partners interested in implementing the Toolkit locally or contributing to the development of future modules.
Whether you are new to Open Science or looking to strengthen existing research practices, the Open Research Toolkit offers flexible, practical training to help make open research a sustainable part of your work.
What You'll Learn
Upon completion of the Open Research Toolkit, learners will be able to...
- Explain the principles of Open Science
- Write data management plans, budgets, and grant applications that incorporate Open Science principles
- Complete per-registration and identify protocol deviations
- Write an ethics application that shares human data
- Evaluate their work for openness and integrate Open Science principles into their projects
Help Shape the Open Research Toolkit
The Open Research Toolkit was designed to be a community resource, and we believe it will be strongest when informed by the diverse perspectives and expertise that exist across neuroscience. As the field continues to grow, we hope to expand the Toolkit to include new topics, approaches, and examples that benefit researchers working across the full spectrum of neuroscience.
Whether you have an idea for a new module, suggestions for improving existing content, or are interested in collaborating on module development, we welcome your input. To start a conversation, please email amanda.rande1@ucalgary.ca.
Implementation at the HBI
At the HBI, the Open Research Toolkit is delivered as a blended learning program that combines self-paced online modules with in-person workshops. Each workshop aligns with module content and provides opportunities for participants to discuss concepts, practice new skills, and explore how Open Science principles can be applied within their own research programs.
In addition to the online modules and workshops, the HBI encourages participants to apply their learning directly to their research through a capstone project. Rather than following a prescribed format, capstone projects are intentionally broad and flexible, allowing participants to identify and implement open research practices that will have the greatest impact within their specific area of neuroscience. Projects may focus on improving transparency, reproducibility, accessibility, or other aspects of open research within an ongoing study or research program. This approach recognizes the diversity of neuroscience research and empowers participants to translate Open Science principles into meaningful, discipline-relevant action.
While the structure and scheduling of workshops will vary across institutions, we are happy to share our experience implementing the Open Research Toolkit at the HBI. If you are interested in developing a complementary workshop series or integrating the Toolkit into an existing training program, please reach out. We are happy to discuss how our workshops are structured, scheduled, and aligned with the online modules, as well as lessons learned from our implementation.
