Irene, can you briefly explain what is ERIA and how does it fit within Circle U.’ broader mission?
The ERIA project consists of various pilot activities organised in four different Work Packages (WP). These WP have different aims, including fostering interdisciplinarity to co-construct solutions with other sectors (WP2), involving citizens and society in research and innovation (WP3), strengthening human capital (WP4), and finally structuring Research and Innovation collaboration at European level (WP5).
My work has focused on evaluating the effectiveness and implementation of the pilot activities delivered under WP2 and WP3, which include initiatives such as training programmes and residential workshops.
Interdisciplinarity a key element
Can you explain the different activities you looked at, which aimed to encourage interdisciplinarity?
Interdisciplinarity was promoted through three key activities. The first one was the Inter Circle U. Prize – known as ICUP -, which showcases existing success stories and expresses institutional support for inter- and trans-disciplinary research and projects.
The second activity is known as the Sandpits, which are residential workshops designed to stimulate interaction among participants from multiple Circle U. universities and from across different disciplines, and encourage free thinking to come up with new initiatives or novel research projects.
The last one was the Interdisciplinary Thematic Research Networks, which aimed to support the creation of networks that bring together researchers from different Circle U. universities as well as stakeholders outside academia.
What are the most significant outcomes observed from these activities?
In my view, the Sandpits were one of the pilot activities that delivered the most interesting outcomes.
The Sandpits were successful in promoting interdisciplinary research and forming new collaborations, and they received really good feedback from participants. Almost all of participants mentioned that their interest in inter/trans-disciplinary research had increased, and that they also had a better understanding of inter/trans-disciplinary research approaches.
Participants also viewed the opportunity to connect and exchange ideas with a range of experts across disciplines and countries as a significant benefit for their careersand also allowed them to form meaningful connections.
Hard to engage citizens
How did ERIA succeed in involving citizens and society in research?
Involving the general public in research is still a challenge. Some ERIA activities aimed at bringing citizens closer to the research work and explore collaborations with practicioners and the general public, but some activities mostly attracted members of academia and students.
The Training for Climate Change Practicioners brought together members of NGOs, policymakers and a few academics from around the world, and the Democracy Schools Initiative involved the participation of primary and secondary schools’ teachers, students, and researchers.
These findings show there is still some work to be done to identify the best ways to engage citizens in research to successfully bring closer the general public and the academic community.
Tailored approach
What lessons were learned through the evaluation of these activities, and how might they inform future initiatives?
One of the main takeaways is that activities that promote interdisciplinarity have the potential to promote collaboration, out-of-the-box thinking, and creativity, so it’s important that we continue to include them in Circle U.’s programme. These activities also represent a step forward towards the recognition of interdisciplinary projects and can support interdisciplinary experts progress in their careers.
Another key lesson is the importance of a well-thought-out communication strategy. Each activity needs a tailored approach to effectively reach and engage the right audience. It’s also essential that universities use their resources and networks to involve non-academic stakeholders, as their participation is critical in ensuring that Circle U. extends its impact beyond academia and truly makes a difference.
