Capacity Development Modules - ToT workshops in designing transdisciplinary knowledge co-production processes

This deliverable documents the development of the co-production capacity-building modules within the DIRECTED project, which aims to strengthen Disaster Risk Management (DRM) and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) through improved knowledge co-production processes, the results of this work are available to explore here: https://weadapt.org/tandem/ 

At the core of these modules is the Tandem Framework (Daniels et al., 2020), a structured approach to transdisciplinary knowledge co-production that has been implemented across multiple European Real World Labs (RWLs) and embedded within the application of the Risk-Tandem (Parviainen et al., 2024), integrating collaborative governance within CCA and DRR decision-making. Risk-Tandem builds on the foundation of the knowledge co-production process, introducing other risk governance mechanisms and tools (D3.2).

The process of carrying out knowledge co-production both develops the capacity of its participants and also identifies new capacity needs. This has enabled the development of context- and user-driven training workshops and capacity development modules with each RWL. Needs have been identified through iterative scoping consultations, qualitative analyses of RWL reports and Capacity Needs Assessments. These activities revealed the importance of developing four key capacities: collaborative, creative, and reflexive, and systems thinking, supported by skills in design, research, and facilitation (Cumiskey et al. 2025). Training-of-Trainer (ToT) workshops, capacity development modules and supporting materials were designed and applied in the labs based on these insights. This report reviews the outcomes of these processes. While participants initially reported limited confidence in applying structured design methods, facilitation techniques, and systems thinking, their capabilities improved considerably through training, peer-to-peer exchanges, and iterative co-design processes, enabling ‘learning-by-doing’ (Dewey, 1971). The findings underscore the need for stronger integration of DRM and CCA, greater emphasis on citizen engagement beyond communication, strengthened representation in governance, and improved approaches to managing uncertainty and ensuring data interoperability. Monitoring, evaluation, and reflexivity also emerged as essential elements that must be embedded as ongoing practices rather than treated as retrospective assessments. 

Building on these insights, DIRECTED has updated the online Tandem guidance to be an interactive tool, enabling easier navigation of the Tandem Guiding Questions. Alongside this, DIRECTED has produced a set of interactive Tandem Capacity Development Modules and toolbox of facilitation canvases. This approach responds to the recognition that Tandem questions, although thorough, require creative, accessible, and inclusive ways of being unpacked and explored by practitioners. The Modules build on lessons from the iterative application of Tandem in DIRECTED, ultimately translating project-specific training that targeted RWL hosts into practical guidance for a wider audience of practitioners and policymakers. The resulting modules can be accessed as printable PDFs for in-person facilitation or via Miro for online delivery. These modules will form part of the wider DIRECTED e-Learning Platform (D6.3) targeting DRM and CCA professionals.

Looking forward, DIRECTED will continue to strengthen the Tandem framework by embedding futures’ thinking, expanding consideration around citizen participation, and institutionalising reflexive and peer-to-peer learning. The online guidance will be enhanced by an interactive glossary (or taxonomy, D2.2) for improved interoperability and communication. Building on experiences such as the Zala Real World Lab workshops, Tandem also now incorporates exercises that align individual and collective goals, drawing on principles from community organising to ensure that collaborations are inclusive, trust-based, and beneficial to all stakeholders.

Through these efforts, DIRECTED contributes to building the skills, tools, and collaborative
practices needed to navigate the complex challenges of climate resilience and risk
governance.