Collaboration: Co-Creating Value Together
Collaboration is at the heart of the EdTech Mentoring Approach, ensuring that seconded researchers and host organizations form meaningful, productive partnerships. Unlike traditional placements, where researchers might work independently or follow a pre-set internship model, this programme emphasizes co-creation, where both parties actively contribute to the learning process and the development of innovative solutions.
By integrating structured yet flexible collaborative models, the approach fosters innovation, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary knowledge transfer. The goal is to provide researchers with a hands-on experience, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world educational technology settings while benefiting from the guidance and expertise of their host organizations.
To accommodate different needs, the EdTech Mentoring Approach offers three structured collaboration models: Each model provides unique advantages and can be adapted to suit the needs of both researchers and hosts.
DESIGN THINKING
A structured user-centred problem-solving approach for fostering creativity and innovation
STARTUP INCUBATOR PRINCIPLES
Entrepreneurial growth is supported through a structured mentorship programme, networking opportunities and funding
Adaptive & Fluid Collaboration
A flexible model for self-directed learning, interdisciplinary exchange and organic knowledge-sharing.
Deep Dive into Each Collaboration Approach
The EdTech Mentoring Approach is characterised by its structured yet flexible collaboration models, which are tailored to suit a range of needs and project dynamics.The three core collaboration approaches – Design Thinking, Startup Incubator Principles, and Adaptive Collaboration – offer distinct benefits and methodologies to encourage innovation and professional growth.
Key Aspects of Each Approach:
- Design Thinking: A methodical problem-solving approach that emphasises creativity, empathy, and iterative prototyping to develop user-centred solutions.
- Startup Incubator Principles: A framework supporting entrepreneurial growth through mentorship, networking, access to resources, and structured development phases.
- Adaptive Collaboration: A flexible, self-directed approach that allows researchers and hosts to co-create personalised working models that fit their needs and goals.
By exploring each of these approaches in depth, researchers and host organisations can identify the best fit for their specific projects, ensuring productive and rewarding secondments.
Choosing the Right Collaboration Model
Selecting the appropriate collaboration model is crucial for optimizing the learning experience and maximizing impact. Each approach serves different needs and project types, making it important to assess which model aligns best with the goals of both researchers and host organizations.
Factors to Consider:
- Project Scope & Objectives
- Does the project require structured innovation (Design Thinking)?
- Is the goal to develop an entrepreneurial mindset (Startup Incubator)?
- Is a more open-ended and evolving exchange preferred (Adaptive Collaboration)?
- Level of Structure Needed
- High: Startup Incubator or Design Thinking
- Medium: Combination of approaches
- Low: Adaptive Collaboration
- Desired Outcomes
- Creating a tangible prototype or service → Design Thinking
- Developing an entrepreneurial skill set → Startup Incubator
- Strengthening interdisciplinary connections and knowledge exchange → Adaptive Collaboration
With a clear understanding of these models, participants can make informed decisions about how to best structure their collaboration.