Innovating in academia
The academic work environment is known for its conservative nature, often restricting innovation and constraining creativity. Despite groundbreaking research taking place within academic institutions, the organizational structures, offices, managers, and work processes frequently fail to implement their own innovative research findings. With Active8-Planet we aim to break through these limitations and innovate the field. In this article, we will share insights from three of our team members who have been actively involved in driving this innovation.
Question: What personal skill has helped you the most?
Vaike: Personally, I have found that being friendly, curious, and having the courage to step beyond the boundaries of my own discipline to collaborate across sectors and subjects has been immensely beneficial.
Gregor: For me, it’s about embracing new perspectives, actively listening to people who may be smarter or more experienced, and avoiding the urge to impose my own agenda. Additionally, I have found value in connecting different people, bringing them together to foster discussion and collaboration. In essence, my most helpful skills include openness, a willingness to learn, and the ability to connect the dots.
Griet: The personal skill that has been most beneficial to me is creative thinking, which extends beyond artistry and allows me to break free from siloed thinking, broadening the scope of my research.
Question: What is one mantra that everyone in this field should hear?
Vaike: I strongly believe that we don’t have the time, nor the privilege, to continue to reproduce traditional disciplinary approaches. As we say in the Active8 Planet project; the planet needs us!
Gregor: It is essential to actively seek out and engage with individuals who possess a genuine passion for their work, who embrace innovation, and are eager to collaborate. It is crucial to set aside any academic ego and openly acknowledge when we lack knowledge, make mistakes, or when we are wrong.
Griet: If there is one mantra that everyone in this field should hear, it is to step outside of their comfort zones and explore beyond their domain of expertise, as the world beyond is so interesting!
Question: What was your most recent ‘aha’ moment?
Vaike: I wouldn’t necessarily call it an ‘aha’ moment, but rather a pleasantly surprising experience that continues to amaze me. It’s remarkable to witness how students from diverse countries can rapidly gain confidence when participating in well-facilitated, intense physical meetings. I think back to the international Active8 Planet meetings during Learning cycles 1 and 2.
Gregor: In the Active8-Planet project I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of design anthropology on companies, as it prompts them to reevaluate their existing products and services. It challenges their ingrained assumptions and prompts fresh perspectives. During a recent presentation by one of the Active8-Planet teams, I was truly inspired by the idea that promoting shared mobility practices can be achieved through innovative vehicle design. By comprehending individuals’ daily practices, habits, frustrations, and values, we can create meaningful and sustainable outcomes through thoughtful design and development.
Griet: My most recent ‘aha’ moment was when I discovered the approach adopted by our partner Halmstad, where they employ extreme scenarios, referred to as ‘skewing,’ to challenge research questions and shift the mindset of both students and companies. It was truly enlightening to witness the transformative power of this, to me, new approach.
We hope these tips & tricks will inspire more people to break through the academic boundaries and innovate the field. Because, as our project states: “The planet needs you!”
