Session 2: Techniques and Tools for Collaboration with Stakeholder
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the role of digital tools in VET research collaboration.
- Identify and use project management platforms (e.g., Trello, Asana) for task tracking.
- Apply communication tools (e.g., Slack, Teams) for real-time collaboration.
- Create stakeholder maps using visualization tools (e.g., Miro, MindMeister).
- Evaluate the use of digital tools for VET project management and collaboration.
This session introduces participants to essential digital tools that facilitate collaboration in VET research projects. Participants will explore platforms for project management, real-time communication, document sharing, research collaboration, and stakeholder mapping. Through hands-on activities, they will learn how to use tools like Trello, Slack, Google Workspace, Mendeley, and Miro to streamline collaboration, enhance communication, and improve coordination with VET stakeholders. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped to apply these tools effectively in their VET projects.
Part 1. Project Management Platforms
Project management tools are essential for organizing tasks, setting deadlines, and assigning responsibilities within a project. These platforms allow teams to track progress, identify bottlenecks, and ensure that stakeholders remain aligned.
Tool Highlights:
Trello:
Trello uses a board and card system that makes it easy to visualize tasks, set due dates, and assign members. It’s ideal for VET projects that need to track multiple stakeholders and phases.
Use case: Tracking the progress of a VET inquiry, assigning tasks (e.g., literature review, data collection), and setting deadlines for collaboration between schools and enterprises.
Asana:
Offers more advanced project timelines (Gantt charts), subtasks, and project milestones. It’s useful for more complex VET projects requiring detailed task breakdowns.
Use case: Managing a long-term research project involving multiple stakeholders, such as VET institutions, government agencies, and industry partners.
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In the following video, you’ll explore essential digital tools designed to enhance collaboration among stakeholders. Learn how these tools facilitate effective communication, streamline project management, and foster seamless teamwork across diverse teams. Perfect for professionals looking to optimize their collaborative efforts and improve stakeholder engagement
Activity
In this practical activity, you will explore a pre-designed Trello board simulating a research project. Identify how to assign tasks, monitor deadlines, and collaborate with different stakeholders.
Part 2. Stakeholder Mapping Software
Stakeholder mapping tools help visualize relationships between stakeholders, their influence, and their roles in a VET project. These maps are essential for planning how to engage stakeholders effectively and ensure project success.
Tool Highlights:
Mural:
A digital workspace designed for visual collaboration, allowing users to create detailed stakeholder maps and engage in collaborative brainstorming.
Miro:
An interactive online whiteboard for collaboration, perfect for brainstorming, stakeholder mapping, and visualizing relationships.
Use case: Creating a stakeholder map to identify key VET stakeholders such as educators, industry representatives, and government bodies.
MindMeister:
A tool for creating mind maps, useful for categorizing stakeholders based on interest and influence.
Use case: Mapping out stakeholder roles and responsibilities in an applied research project for effective engagement.