IDCC27 Workshop 2: Training the Trainers

Metadata underpins the discovery, understanding, management, reuse, and preservation of research data. Despite its importance, it is rarely taught in a formal or structured way. The resulting lack of shared foundations can make it difficult to interpret guidance and standards, build confidence, and make consistent decisions about data and metadata.

This full-day interactive workshop introduces Understanding Metadata (https://closer-cohorts.github.io/understanding-metadata/), a suite of open training resources developed by CLOSER to support metadata literacy. The online courses provide a structured learning pathway from research data and core metadata concepts through to metadata entities, relationships, and practical approaches to metadata creation.

The workshop is aimed at research data managers, data stewards, librarians, metadata specialists, repository staff, trainers, and others who support research communities. It is suitable for practitioners with varying levels of metadata experience, from those wishing to strengthen their understanding of metadata concepts to those involved in developing training and support activities.

Through short presentations, discussions and practical exercises, participants will explore selected modules from the courses and experience key learning activities. Alongside developing an understanding of key metadata concepts, participants will be invited to share experiences of developing and delivering training, discuss train-the-trainer approaches and opportunities for future collaboration.

1. To introduce participants to the Understanding Metadata resources through selected modules and activities, increasing understanding of key metadata concepts and providing practical experience of the materials.
2. To explore train-the-trainer approaches to metadata education, including the use of exercises and activities, drawing on participants' experiences and perspectives to inform further development.
3. To gather feedback on the training programme, foster collaboration, and identify opportunities to contribute to the ongoing development, improvement, and future adaptation of the resources.

8:30 - 9:00 Registration

9:00 - 10:30 An introduction to CLOSER's Understanding Metadata training courses

10:30-11:00 Coffee Break

11:00 - 12:00 Exploring train-the-trainer approaches to metadata education

12:00-13:00 Lunch Break

13:00 - 14:00 Exploring train-the-trainer approaches to metadata education continued

14:00-14:15 Coffee Break

14:15 - 15:45 Training feedback and exploring collaboration opportunities

15:45-16:00 Closing & Next Steps