Where LEGO Meets FAIR Data: A Hands-On Workshop
What is this training about:
OpenAIRE in collaboration with Area Science Park organizes a hands-on workshop titled “Where LEGO Meets FAIR Data,” designed to introduce the principles of FAIR data through a creative, interactive simulation using LEGO metaphors. This engaging session combines theoretical insights with playful collaboration to help participants grasp how research data can be made Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable. The workshop offers a glimpse into the activities proposed in the Master in Data Management and Curation (MDMC), an advanced program for Data Stewards, Data Managers, Data Engineers, and data professionals at large, jointly developed by Area Science Park and SISSA.
Why to join:
This workshop is particularly valuable for early-career researchers and data stewards, including Open Science trainers who are looking to deepen their understanding of data classification, FAIR principles, and the research data lifecycle. Through a mix of hands-on practice and structured discussion, participants will gain insights into how data objects are defined, documented, and shared in alignment with open and FAIR practices. The session encourages critical thinking and group reflection on real-world data challenges, making it ideal for those involved in training, support, or day-to-day data management.
🔵 Organized by: OpenAIRE in collaboration with Area Science Park
👥 Participation: Limited to 50 participants (first-come, first-served)
📍 Format: Online interactive workshop
📅 Duration: 2 hours
Workshop Agenda
14.00–14:15 Welcome & Introduction
Overview of the workshop goals and agenda. Introduction to FAIR data principles and why they matter.
14:15–15:00 LEGO Simulation Activity (Breakout Rooms)
Hands-on group exercise using digital LEGO pieces to represent and classify datasets. Participants discuss metadata, sensitivity, formats, and licensing decisions.
15:00–15:10 Short refreshment break.
15:10–15:55 Wrap-Up & FAIR in Practice
- Group debrief and reflection on the simulation
- Discover the MDMC programme – brief presentation and open call for the 2025–2026 edition now available!
- Brief introduction to the Research Data Management and mapping FAIR principles across the data lifecycle
- Find out how OpenAIRE tools and services serve the Research Life Cycle & FAIR principles (e.g., ARGOS for DMPs, Explore, AMNESIA, Connect)
- Q&A with open discussion for all
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the basic concepts of FAIR data and the research data lifecycle
- Learn how to classify and document datasets through an interactive, metaphor-based simulation
- Discover how OpenAIRE supports FAIR data practices at each stage of the data lifecycle
- Connect with peers and reflect on shared challenges in research data management
Register here!