Datafront Skill Surge: Community engagement & social 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 14 will uncover how inclusive engagement and robust social research shape urban development, ensuring that it truly serves the people it’s meant to protect and support.

 

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

• Explore the importance of community engagement in climate-resilient urban planning.
• Understand the principles, tools, and policies supporting meaningful engagement.
• Discuss the integration of social research into the planning process to achieve holistic solutions.

 

Skills area and competencies

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

Skills Areas:

• Stakeholder Communication and Engagement: Effectively interacting with diverse community groups to gather meaningful input.
• Qualitative and Quantitative Data Analysis: Combining insights from community feedback with technical data for decision-making.
• Cultural Competency in Planning: Adapting engagement approaches to align with local norms and values.

Competencies:

• Proficiency in conducting and analysing social research for planning.
• Expertise in applying participatory tools, such as mapping and storytelling.
• Strategic problem-solving for overcoming barriers to engagement.

 

Pre-requisite

• Basic understanding of urban systems and community planning principles.
• Interest in participatory approaches and data-driven decision-making.
• Familiarity with engagement tools, such as digital platforms or surveys, is helpful but not required.

 

Learning outcomes

• Design and implement community engagement strategies for diverse projects.
• Integrate social research techniques to gather and analyse valuable community insights.
• Evaluate and measure the success of engagement efforts to refine future practices.

 

Transferable skills

• Critical Thinking: Analysing and synthesising community feedback into actionable strategies.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working with technical experts, policymakers, and communities.
• Leadership in Participatory Processes: Guiding multi-stakeholder initiatives with transparency and inclusivity.
• Digital and Technological Proficiency: Using digital tools to enhance engagement and outreach.

 

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.