Workshop: "Research Data and Software Competencies" at VW thematic week "Digital Competencies in Academia"
The Volkswagen Foundation hosted a thematic week on "Digital Competencies in Academia" at the Xplanatorium in Schloss Herrenhausen, Hannover. This venue provided an inspiring setting for our workshop on "Research Data and Software Competencies." Together with co-organizers NFDI4DS, QUADRIGA, and DKZ.2R, we explored critical challenges and innovative solutions for improving research data and software management. Vibrant discussions, shared learning experiences, and plans for future collaborations marked the event.
Content of the Workshop
The workshop brought together participants from diverse disciplines dedicated to advancing competencies in research data and software. Discussions centered on three main themes:
- Research Software and the Dev-User Continuum: A key focus for NFDIxCS was the evolving role of researchers who develop and use research software. Participants examined the challenges and opportunities researchers face writing code for their projects while acting as end-users who adapt and modify tools. Proposed strategies for balancing these roles included better documentation and introducing quality indicators.
- Didactics and Open Educational Resources (OER): Another pivotal topic was the integration of effective didactics and using OER to enhance training for research data and software management. Participants discussed the importance of accessible learning materials, hands-on training sessions, and the creation of reusable educational resources to build digital competencies across academia.
- Cooperation and Communication: The workshop also emphasized fostering collaboration and clear communication among researchers, software developers, and institutional stakeholders across disciplinary borders. Building shared vocabulary and fostering cross-project collaborations and platforms were identified as essential strategies to increase impact.
Results
The workshop concluded with a range of concrete outcomes. Participants generated multiple ideas and plans for scientific papers and collaborative submissions to upcoming conferences. For NFDIxCS, the discussions were helpful in understanding current discussions in the communities and inspiring further work to support researchers navigating the intersection of software development and academic inquiry. Moreover, the focus on didactics and OER highlighted practical ways to enhance digital literacy and competency-building in academia.
This event underscored the value of community-driven initiatives to tackle shared challenges and leverage collective expertise by establishing networks and platforms for cooperation. Significant progress is being made in enhancing research data and software management across disciplines.
A heartfelt thank you to our co-organizers—NFDI4DS, QUADRIGA, and DKZ.2R—and the Volkswagen Foundationfor hosting and supporting this inspiring event.
For more insights, please visit the Research Data and Software Competencies Website.
