Building on ABC: Co-creating an online training resource for social sciences researchers

Aspect members: University of York, University of Sussex, Durham University

What was the project doing?

This project built upon the collective learnings and successes of the ESRC NPIF Accelerating Business Collaboration fund to pilot a comprehensive Knowledge Exchange training program for research active and professional support staff.

Activities included:

• Consulting with those who received ABC funds, collating details on training and development activities, understanding the perceived successes, failures, and frustrations of the program.
• Surveying researchers to identify key areas where they wanted and needed development in relation to KE.
• Creating a pilot training program, with potential wider roll-out in 2022/23 (Now available on the Aspect members Platform).
• Creating a library of resources, including a list of training facilitators and their expertise (Now available on the Aspect members Platform).

Why was this needed?

The ESRC ABC programme has generated a wealth of information, experience, and knowledge. However, there was little opportunity to share these experiences and learn from the successes and failures of others for the purposes of future planning. This project aimed to capture this knowledge and share best practices and resources.

How could members get involved?

Members were involved with the project via:

• Connecting with the project via the main ABC contact in their university/DTP.
• Sharing learnings, experience, and ideas for the future with the project team.
• Sharing relevant communications with beneficiaries of their ABC activities.

For more information and to get involved please contact:

Mary Harris (M.F.Harris@sussex.ac.uk)  

Charlotte Kerr (charlotte.kerr@durham.ac.uk)