[Online Training] If Objects Could Talk: Storytelling with Data for Public Engagement

How do objects speak through their data? What stories are hidden in their histories of use, collection, and transformation?

In this interactive training, we will explore how storytelling can make research more accessible, engaging, and meaningful to diverse publics. You will learn to uncover and communicate the stories behind objects, focusing on how they were collected, handled, and interpreted through data. Using narrative principles and real-world examples, we’ll show how to transform complex datasets into compelling public stories.

Whether you work with scientific collections or their digital records, this training will provide practical tools for integrating storytelling into research, exhibitions, public programs, and digital formats.

REGISTER HERE

Accessibility and Support

We are committed to making this program accessible to everyone.

• Our trainings take place on Zoom, and we will introduce accessibility features such as captions at the beginning.
• The trainings use interactive methods, including breakout rooms. Throughout the sessions, you have the option of using a quiet space instead of joining a breakout room.
• We are using Miro as an interactive tool in the workshops. There will be a short introduction, but we can offer additional support if needed.

If you have specific needs or concerns, feel free to contact Katja Loginova, our Public Engagement Coordinator at katja.loginova@mfn.berlin

We’ll keep you updated with new sessions and information throughout the year.

All trainings are held in English.

WiNoDa Public Engagement Program

Are you passionate about your complex scientific work and eager to share this fascination with others? Do you want to engage directly with broader audiences, gain fresh perspectives, and receive meaningful feedback — but aren’t sure how to start the conversation?

The WiNoDa Knowledge Lab introduces a new training program on Public Engagement. This program is designed to empower our community — researchers, data specialists, museum professionals, citizen scientists, and more — with practical principles and strategies for engaging both scientific and non-scientific audiences.

Our goal is to bridge the gap between data science and public engagement, enabling participants to communicate complex data effectively, foster meaningful dialogue, and evaluate the impact of their engagement initiatives.

The training program has been developed and will be delivered with our partner, the Berlin School of Public Engagement and Open Science

What to Expect

Through a series of interactive online trainings, you will develop skills in:

• Designing and implementing engagement strategies for data-driven research.
• Translating complex data insights into formats accessible to diverse audiences.
• Choosing right formats to connect your work with wider audiences.
• Collaborating with professionals across disciplines for fresh perspectives.

The training series:

(1) Public Engagement in Data-Driven Research – 25.02.2025

(2) Project toolkit: how to design and implement effective Public Engagement activities for Research Projects – 15.04.2025

(3) If Objects Could Talk: Storytelling with Data for Public Engagement – 10.06.2025

(4) Creative Engagement Methods and Data Visualization for Impact – 09.2025