ARDC National Skills Forum: Coaching Researchers Outside the Comfort Zone

This forum explores coaching as a specific skillset that can bridge the divide between attending a workshop and changing research practice. While self‑paced modules and exercises are useful, they rarely shift mindsets or sustain confidence when the work becomes unfamiliar. A trainer who draws on coaching techniques can help learners push through uncertainty, apply new methods in their own projects, and build capability that lasts beyond the room.

We’ve invited research professionals to share examples of coaching approaches that have made a difference for learners building data and software capability. Together we’ll explore:

• how coaching complements instruction in peer‑to‑peer training
• why coaching for mindsets is so valuable in digital skills training
• ways coaching can strengthen both individual capability and broader community practice.

Some training programs already embed coaching principles with great success. Understanding how trainers might develop these capabilities can elevate practice across the sector and strengthen outcomes for research communities.

Guest panellists

• Rowland Mosbergen, Strategic Engagement and Planning Manager, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI)
• Dr Louise Ord, Data Visualisation Technical Lead, Information Management and Technology, CSIRO
• Dr Jianzhou Zhao, eResearch Analyst, Intersect and University of Technology Sydney

Facilitator: Liz Stokes, ARDC Skills Lead - Trainer Communities.

Who is this for?

We are trainers and research sector stakeholders driving uplift in data skills capability. This session is for:

• trainers and training managers
• research software engineers (RSEs), NCRIS and HPC facility staff
• researchers who coach and mentor peers and colleagues
• higher-degree research (HDR) supervisors
• HDR students.

What to expect

• How to recognise mindset and comfort zone blockers, and how to respond in the moment
• Insights into how coaching strengthens peer‑to‑peer training and builds confidence across research communities
• Practical coaching techniques that you can use and share with your peer
  
  The ARDC National Skills Forum is a monthly community event for trainers and research support professionals hosted by the ARDC Skilled Workforce Development Team. Our purpose is to facilitate knowledge exchange across the trainer community, and showcase digital research skills development activities, resources and best practice across the sector. Learn more.

Further resources

• A RDC website
• ARDC Resource Hub
• ARDC National Skills Forum information

Will the session be recorded?

Yes, the session will be recorded. The recording will be provided to all registrants and published on the ARDC YouTube channel.

Have questions for our panel?

Share these when you register! For general enquiries, email contact@ardc.edu.au.

To keep up to date on the latest digital research news and events, subscribe to the ARDC Connect newsletter.

Please note this event will be recorded and published by the ARDC. This may include your contributions during the session. The ARDC respects the privacy of individuals. Information collected is in accordance with the ARDC Privacy Policy.