We believe it is important to offer varied formats of researcher training and development – from face-to-face group events to online resources to individual mentoring and reflection. Individual researchers can choose their own pathway through the wealth of opportunities provided by Faculties, Schools, central services, and research colleagues.
Online Resources
Online resources provide key information and prompts for learning, in a flexible format that can be accessed worldwide at any time. Online courses take individuals through key learning experiences, ensuring a baseline competency. Some online courses feature virtual group tasks and discussions, facilitated by a tutor.
Workshops
Workshops bring researchers together, away from their usual environment, which in itself can provide valuable insights, networking and peer support. Different styles of workshops cater for a variety of needs – from introducing new concepts and information, to enhancing skills and raising understanding to new levels. Skilled and experienced staff choose appropriate modes of operation, often combining these to suit the varying needs of a group:
- Trainers focus on information being assimilated and used by participants.
- Developers focus primarily on drawing out learning and skill development from individuals and groups.
- Facilitators create a supportive environment and empower participants to learn or develop, whether the primary focus is on new learning or further development.
The expertise of workshop trainers, developers and facilitators ensures that participants are challenged and stretched to learn and develop at a faster pace, and to deeper levels, than they would otherwise.
Mentoring
Mentoring provides focus for development of researchers at all levels, and may be formal or informal. It is highly tailored to the needs of the individual, and the onus is on the individual to seek the support they require from their mentor. A mentor has greater experience than the mentee, whilst in Coaching the coach supports and prompts the individual to improve themselves. Mentoring and coaching are usually focussed on specific areas for development, which may link to online or workshop.
Blended Learning
Blended learning is supported by providing further resources for private study and reflection, and by mixing online and face-to-face opportunities. We are expanding blended learning opportunities via ResearchConnect, an online community space for informal learning, and we are developing coaching schemes for peer support of individual development.
