Datafront Skill Surge: Collaborative research projects

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 33 will focus on how collaborative research projects function-not just as teams, but as systems of co-creation.

 

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 key roles and governance elements that support productive teamwork.
• Highlight interpersonal and epistemological challenges in cross-disciplinary settings.
• Explore sustainable practices for long-term collaboration and shared learning.

 

Skills area and competencies

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

Skills Areas:

• Project Structuring and Team Design: Ability to define research roles, phases, and governance frameworks.
• Collaborative Facilitation: Skills in managing interpersonal dynamics, power asymmetries, and communication gaps.
• Digital Collaboration Tools: Proficiency in selecting and using platforms to coordinate interdisciplinary efforts.

Competencies:

• Shared Governance Literacy: Understanding how to co-create agreements and decision-making protocols.
• Interpersonal Reflexivity: Ability to manage differences in values, norms, and communication practices.
• Sustainable Collaboration Practice: Capacity to support long-term interdisciplinary engagement through routines, flexibility, and trust-building.

 

Pre-requisite

• Have some experience participating in or supporting collaborative projects.
• Be familiar with basic research project lifecycles.
• Have an interest in interdisciplinary research or experience navigating cross-sectoral or multi-partner dynamics.

 

Learning outcomes

• Define typical roles and responsibilities in diverse research teams.
• Understand governance mechanisms and their importance to project equity and coherence.
• Anticipate and address common interpersonal and structural challenges in interdisciplinary teamwork.

 

Transferable skills

• Leadership in Interdisciplinary Contexts: Skills in supporting diverse teams toward common goals.
• Conflict Navigation and Resolution: Tools for addressing tensions and promoting alignment.
• Cross-Platform Collaboration: Ability to adapt workflows and communication to a variety of digital tools and collaborative environments.

 

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.