Learning about FAIR data through an interactive LEGO® simulation.
What does it take to make research data Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable? This online workshop offers a hands-on introduction to the principles of FAIR data, using LEGO® as a creative and interactive way to explore the challenges of data management.
Organised by OpenAIRE in collaboration with Area Science Park, the workshop combines short theoretical sessions with a practical simulation designed to help participants understand how decisions about data, metadata, formats, sensitivity and licensing can affect their reuse and interoperability.
The activity is led by Mariarita de Luca and Federica Bazzocchi, researchers at Area Science Park’s Data Engineering Laboratory, and draws on the training approach developed within the Master’s programme in Data Management and Curation (MDMC).
Through the LEGO® simulation, participants work together to represent and classify datasets, discuss their characteristics and consider the choices required to make data FAIR. The collaborative exercise is followed by a discussion connecting the experience to real-world data management practices.
The workshop provides an opportunity to explore some of the topics and methodologies addressed in the MDMC Master’s programme, an annual professional programme developed by Area Science Park and SISSA to train future Data Stewards, Data Managers, Data Engineers and other data professionals.
The workshop will be held in English. Participation is free of charge, with a maximum of 50 participants.
Workshop programme
14:00 - 14:15
Workshop introduction and FAIR data principles
Overview of the workshop goals and agenda, followed by an introduction to FAIR data and their role in research.
14:15 - 15:00
LEGO® Simulation Activity – Breakout Rooms
A hands-on group exercise using digital LEGO® pieces to represent and classify datasets. Participants discuss metadata, sensitivity, formats and licensing choices.
15:00 - 15:10
Short break
15:10 - 15:55
Wrap-up: FAIR in practice
Group debrief and reflection on the simulation and its connections with real-world data management.
Registration is required.