Whilst designing TRANSCEND’s online training, our primary intention was to create a space
where civil society organisations and security researchers and practitioners could come together
to learn in parallel and in dialogue. Rather than merging perspectives into a single narrative,
TRANSCEND’s training invites diverse actors to explore shared challenges from their respective
standpoints. This article outlines the strategic framework of the upcoming training programme
and highlights the specific benefits it offers to each target group: civil society organisations
(CSOs) and security researchers and practitioners (SRPs) alike.
The learning modules structure reflects this aim. We are offering five sections, one being an
overall introduction and the remaining four being dedicated to each pilot activity. Each of the four
pilot modules will thus be dedicated to: Cybersecurity, Fighting Crime and Terrorism, Disaster
Resilient Society and Border Management. Within each pilot’s section, separate learning tracks
for CSOs and SRPs are complemented by shared spaces of learning, acknowledging that
inclusive security is not the responsibility of one group alone.
Dialogic Learning for Different Roles
CSOs often bring invaluable experience in community engagement, yet their contributions are
rarely recognised as central to the security research ecosystem. The training, based on the
Toolbox’s methodologies, offers tools to formalise their knowledge and deepen practical skills.
For instance, in the Disaster Resilience module, CSO’s learners can dive into how the Austrian
Red Cross, through the Team Österreich project, mobilises year-round volunteers to strengthen
community preparedness to natural disasters.
SRPs, on the other hand, may initially struggle to see the concrete benefits of involving citizens
in their research, design and development cycles. The training modules help them navigate the
practical and ethical challenges they might face. In the Fighting Crime and Terrorism module, for
instance, they will learn how to leverage social innovation, rather than specific technologies, for
engaging stakeholders in crime prevention.
Including the TRANSCEND Toolbox “Game”
The Toolbox’s “Game”, which we introduced in June last year in this article, will also play a part
in the training. Initially developed as an introduction to the Toolbox, this companion to our
methodological guide eases learners into the methodologies of impact assessment and citizen
engagement within security research we propose.
The “Game” is especially valuable in hands-on components of the training as it allows learners
to quickly test and role-play the Toolbox’s methods. This practical training is useful to rehearse
decision-making in a safe, low-risk environment. Beyond learning, it also serves as a
springboard for planning future citizen engagement efforts.
Shared Learning Goals
Assessment will be based on reflection, practical assignments, and quizzes, with certification
available upon completion. To support continued exchange, we invite participants to join the
TRANSCEND LinkedIn Network, where peer learning and sharing of outcomes can extend
beyond the training itself.
By structuring the training around both targeted tracks and shared collaboration, we aim to
foster a more reflexive and participatory security landscape, one where technical innovation and
social values are not at odds, but interwoven. In this space, CSOs and SRPs can work together
towards the common goal of inclusive and responsible security research and innovation.
Written by Elena Falomo, Code for All
If you would like to learn more about this work, please feel free to contact us at contact@transcend-project.eu.
