AI for Research, Insights & Data

The course will run from 20 - 24 April 2026

What: 1 hour of video lessons + up to 1 hour hands on exercises and use cases.
When: Monday 20/4/26 - Friday 24/4/26 (learn at your own pace) + live session on Friday 30 April 13:00 – 14:00 CET.
Course lead: Dr Jenna Nassiri
Guest experts: Dr Marie McAuliffe, Dr Robin Sutherland-Harris & Mr Tim Ngwena
Workshop coordinator: Valentina Lazzarini (v.lazzarini@polisync.org)

Course description

This course introduces participants to the practical and ethical use of Generative AI (GenAI) tools in non-profit research and knowledge creation. Across three focused lessons, learners will explore how to integrate AI into evidence-based research workflows - from gathering credible data to co-writing reports and policy briefs that align with organizational missions.

The first lesson, Data Collection, demonstrates how to conduct sector-relevant desk research using AI-powered platforms to identify, evaluate, and synthesize credible sources. Participants learn to narrow research questions, build search strategies, and critically assess the quality and limitations of evidence.

The second lesson, Co-Writing with AI, focuses on transforming research findings into well-structured outputs. Learners practice summarizing complex materials, refining arguments, and maintaining authorial integrity using the SHARE framework (Streamline, Heighten, Arrange, Ratify, Evidence).

The third lesson, AI for Data Cleaning and Visualisation introduces participants to the practical use of AI tools for preparing and communicating quantitative evidence. Learners explore how to clean and organise simple datasets, and generate ideas and visual concepts for data visualisations ideally suited for their audience.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to use AI tools effectively to enhance research rigor, efficiency, and impact in grant writing, advocacy, and policy development.

Read the full syllabus below for more details on the course.

These resources provided are for your personal use only. Please do not share or distribute them on social media.