Educators:
Daniel Wibberg (CAU / ELIXIR Germany), Roland Krause (University of Luxembourg, ELIXIR Luxembourg)

Date:
2-4 September

Location:
Bielefeld University - Center for Biotechnology (CeBiTec)

Contents:
This course is designed for individuals eager to enhance their skills as educators in bioinformatics and computational biology. Whether you are currently an instructor or simply aspiring to become one, this training course offers a unique opportunity to cultivate effective teaching techniques, run impactful workshops, and develop engaging training materials.
Participants are encouraged to embrace the role of a trainer and enhance their pedagogical skills. The course will cover four core topics essential for teaching bioinformatics training courses:
- Principles of learning and how they apply to training
- Innovative training techniques tailored for bioinformatics and computational biology courses including Large Language Models
- Strategies to motivate Learners and combat demotivation
- How to handle difficult situations in a training course

Additionally, the course will address the distinction between training for professionals in the industry and teaching for students, ensuring that the mentioned techniques are relevant to both contexts.

The course consists of a blend of lectures and hands-on exercises, allowing participants to learn and practice these techniques through group discussions and activities. No specific technical background is required, prior experience in teaching is beneficial.

This course is strongly influenced by the ELIXIR Train the Trainer (TtT) program. 

Learning outcomes:
- Improved teaching skills
- Know principles of learning
- How to apply LLMs in training environments
- How can motivation be influenced - know principles how to motivate learners and avoid demotivation
- A better ability to teach key bioinformatics concepts
- Proactive handling of difficult situations in a training course

Prerequisites:
Attendees should be equipped with a personal laptop. Having an interest (and experience) in training is beneficial.

Keywords:
Train-the-Trainer