partX – Training, Reflection, and a Concrete Next Step

This year, I took part in the partX training programme run by the mit:forschen platform. The programme was structured as a series of four modules, focusing on participatory research practice:

1. Orientation and positioning
2. The role of the ambassador
3. The role of the supporter
4. Project ideation and concretisation

The sessions were held online, using Zoom and Miro. I was initially sceptical about whether a meaningful exchange with unfamiliar participants could emerge in this format. In practice, it worked better than expected. Short theoretical inputs were combined with small-group work, shared reflection, and the simulation of advisory situations. This made abstract ideas tangible and helped clarify what actually matters when designing participatory research projects.

Alongside the training, participation also included the possibility of project funding (4,000 €). In this context, I developed the project Reflection Tools for Participatory Research, which is described in detail on the project page.

Project Pitch and Closing Event

The programme concluded with an in-person event on 10 December 2025 at the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space in Berlin. Participants were invited to pitch their project ideas to an audience from research institutions and the ministry.

Presenting the project publicly required some courage, but it was a good exercise: concise, focused, and concrete. Afterwards, we received a certificate from Dr. Effrosyni Chelioti, Head of Department for Strategy and Fundamental Issues.

Conversations and Next Steps

The second part of the event was dedicated to networking. The atmosphere was open and unforced, and many conversations moved quickly from polite exchange to concrete ideas.

Stefanie Pietsch and I realised that our respective project ideas complement each other well. We plan to explore a joint approach and continue working together on shared questions around participatory formats.

I also spoke with Tim Kiessling, who is closely involved in the Plastic Pirates citizen science initiative, about running a citizen science project at a school in Stralsund, drawing on his experience with school-based projects.

Closing

Overall, the training series and the final event were both well structured and genuinely useful. They provided space for reflection and concrete follow-up ideas. I’m grateful for the opportunity to participate and for the work put into organising the programme.