(Published on 22.08.2022) Data literacy describes the ability to understand and implement the planned handling of digital data. It is therefore a requirement for effective research data management. One goal of the association National Research Data Infrastructure (NFDI) is to increase the data literacy of scientists. To this end, the project “Data Literacy in NFDI” was launched in mid-July. It is funded for two years by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). For the duration of the project, 1.5 positions for scientific officers were created at the NFDI office in Karlsruhe.
The aim of the project is to examine the topic of data literacy in the context of NFDI, to identify opportunities for expansion and support, and to develop strategic ideas for using the NFDI network for the interdisciplinary expansion of data literacy. Following an inventory and needs analysis of data literacy and data science training for scientists in NFDI, the project will develop target group-oriented concepts and solutions. In addition, the topic of data literacy as a whole will be highlighted. The connection to the section Training & Education of the association will play an important role in the realisation of the project.
The project fits into the German government’s data strategy, which aims to “significantly increase the innovative and responsible provision and use of data, particularly in Germany and Europe”[1]. The Council for Information Infrastructures (RfII) and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research also support the increase of data competencies in science and beyond. [2] [3]
“A high level of data literacy is more important than ever in the context of large, heterogeneous data sets and demanding user programmes,” says NFDI Director Prof. Dr. York Sure Vetter. The bundling and development of educational offers in the field is therefore a relevant step, he adds. “I am delighted about the start of the project.”
More information will be made available as the project progresses at https://www.nfdi.de/project-data-literacy-in-nfdi-has-started/?lang=en
+++
[1] Datenstrategie der Bundesregierung (2021): https://www.bundesregierung.de/breg-de/suche/datenstrategie-der-bundesregierung-1845632
[2] RfII – Rat für Informationsinfrastrukturen: Digitale Kompetenzen – dringend gesucht! Empfehlungen zu Berufs- und Ausbildungsperspektiven für den Arbeitsmarkt Wissenschaft (2019): https://rfii.de/download/digitale-kompetenzen-dringend-gesucht/
[3] BMBF Aktionsplan Forschungsdaten (2021): https://www.bmbf.de/bmbf/de/forschung/digitale-wirtschaft-und-gesellschaft/aktionsplan-forschungsdaten/aktionsplan-forschungsdaten_node.html
Other posts
Kickoff of the Section International Engagement
The new International Engagement Section was officially launched on March 31, 2026, and elected its spokespersons for the first time on that occasion.
Science Year 2026: Health Data at MS Wissenschaft 2026
NFDI4Health is participating in MS Wissenschaft 2026 with an interactive exhibit. In the Science Year 2026 – Medicine of the Future, everything on board the MS Wissenschaft will revolve around our health.
Love Data Week 2026: NFDI participates in the international action week on research data
From 9 to 13 February 2026, Love Data Week will take place once again—an international action week that brings together researchers, infrastructures, and data-interested communities worldwide. In 2026, the focus is once again on the conscious, responsible, and sustainable handling of research data.
Recent Comments