Datafront Skill Surge: Challenges & solutions in sustainable research

Course description

What do we mean when we talk about administrative data? Why is administrative data considered such a powerful tool?

Routinely collected administrative data captures interactions across the entire population, offering an unparalleled breadth and depth of information.

This on-demand series aims to equip researchers with the knowledge and skills to harness data for societal and sustainable change. This series covers important topics such as the use of administrative data in policymaking, circular economy models, climate resilience, and the impact of digital media on behaviour, with emphasis on the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative strategies to address global challenges.

Participants will gain insights from experts, study case studies, and explore practical examples that illustrate how data-driven approaches and emerging technologies are transforming urban planning, agriculture, and health – that will empower researchers to shape the future of the data landscape!

• Session 4 will explore the key challenges that researchers face in sustainability, from data limitations to technological constraints, and most importantly, we’ll discuss solutions that can help overcome these barriers. Sustainability is a complex, multi-dimensional issue, and finding innovative ways to address these challenges is essential to driving long-term, impactful change.

 

Learning mode

On-demand, self-paced 

 

Who should attend

This course is intended for:

• Data Analysts and Researchers: Those working with administrative or big data who want to deepen their understanding of its characteristics and uses.
• Policymakers and Government Officials: Decision-makers who rely on data to shape public policies.
• Public Sector Managers: Managers in government institutions seeking to optimise data usage for service improvements.
• Health and Social Care Professionals: Individuals looking to use data for improving service delivery and outcomes.
• Urban Planners and Public Health Professionals: Individuals interested in using administrative data to inform planning and health policies.

 

Aims and objectives

• Identify common challenges faced in sustainability research, such as data gaps, ethical concerns, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Present practical solutions for overcoming these challenges, including improved data integration, stakeholder engagement, and innovative research methods.
• Discuss the role of technology in enhancing research processes, including the use of AI, big data, and digital platforms.
• Emphasise the importance of ethical considerations in sustainability research, particularly in relation to community engagement and data use.

 

Skills area and competencies

Based on the Datacise Open Learning framework, the relevant skills and competencies for this video include:

Skills Areas:

• Problem-Solving in Research: Skills in identifying and addressing key challenges in sustainability studies.
• Data Management: Understanding how to effectively manage and integrate sustainability data.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Ability to engage multiple stakeholders (e.g., government, communities) in the research process.

 

Competencies:

• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Competence in working with experts from different fields to tackle sustainability challenges.
• Ethical Data Use: Skills in managing sensitive data while ensuring ethical considerations are met.
• Research Innovation: Capacity to apply new technologies and methods to enhance the research process.

 

Pre-requisite

• Basic knowledge of sustainability principles and environmental research methods.
• Familiarity with research data management or interest in the challenges of sustainability research.
• An understanding of collaborative research approaches is beneficial.

 

Learning outcomes

• Recognise key challenges faced in sustainability research, such as data gaps, stakeholder collaboration, and ethical concerns.
• Understand innovative solutions for overcoming these challenges, such as leveraging technology and fostering interdisciplinary partnerships.
• Gain insight into ethical considerations in sustainability research, including community involvement and responsible data use.
• Apply problem-solving techniques to address challenges in their own sustainability research projects.

 

Transferable skills

• Critical Thinking: Enhanced ability to assess and solve challenges in sustainability research.
• Data Integration: Skills in managing and integrating sustainability data from multiple sources.
• Collaboration Skills: Ability to work across disciplines and engage with stakeholders to solve complex research problems.
• Ethical Research Practice: Skills in ensuring that research methodologies meet ethical standards, particularly in community engagement and data privacy.

 

Assessment

Multiple choice quiz to self-check understanding. 

 

This training content was originally developed and produced by Professor Adam Chee, Datacise Education Lead at Swansea University, with narration enhanced by advanced text-to-speech technology.