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“Show & Tell” – everyone shares and everyone learns

By José Pedro Rodrigues*

“Show & Tell”… what is it? It is a meeting that is periodically scheduled for researchers from UITT and other researchers involved in work in areas covered by the unit.

What is the aim? The general idea is to exchange ideas, share knowledge and discuss work projects in progress.

When does it take place? Every week, except during the holiday period.

What type of format does the meeting take? It has a simple, and in my opinion effective format: the meeting begins with an informal discussion and networking session which is followed by a presentation and discussion of a project or research previously chosen by the organiser for that week.

Who presents the research or project? A group member.

What types of research or projects are usually presented? The research and projects presented are usually in areas that are central to the research conducted at UITT. They can also be other types of projects that that are relevant to these areas (such as Business Execution). The project does not have to be the work of the presenter.

I am a fan of the “Show & Tell” meetings and believe that they can stimulate our research. The aim is to promote the formation of groups in the area of “Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship”, study key models in this area and promote team spirit. Therefore, the event has real potential for a group of researchers, particularly because it takes place every week and addresses various topics.

In addition to being useful and enjoyable, the experience we gain from these meetings is particularly interesting. For one of the presentation styles, one person from the group (a different one each week) shares their experience on a certain topic they have been working on, the group then discuss it together. Therefore, the person presenting is not just sharing their knowledge with the group, but they can also hear opinions and see different perspectives from the group members with experience in different areas that often complement the topic being presented.

Another presentation style is when a group member provides information on a key model for UITT’s research; this does not have to coincide with the area the person works in. Analysing this model would usually be conducted individually or in small groups, however in this case, it can be analysed by various people, ensuring that the topic is discussed more fully and in detail and that all questions are addressed.

In conclusion, this event has many advantages for all of the participants and these advantages are particularly important for research groups like ours. The format of the meetings, as “Show & Tell” makes them effective. The initial networking informally prepares the participants for the following moment of the meeting, the presentation and discussion, where they can see the advantages of sharing their knowledge. Everyone shares and learns in this event.

*Collaborator at the Innovation and Technology Transfer Unit (UITT)