Description
PresenterDamiano Oldoni
Authors
Damiano Oldoni - Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Belgium
Raïsa Carmen - Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Belgium
Emma Cartuyvels - Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Belgium
Oberon Geunens - Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Belgium
Dirk Maes - Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Belgium
Rhea Masele - Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Belgium
Amber Mertens - Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Belgium
Hans Van Calster - Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO), Belgium
Abstract
In January 2018, inspired by similar initiatives, a group of enthusiastic researchers at the Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO) launched a coding club. The INBO Coding Club (https://coding-club.inbo.be/) was, is, and will continue to be a welcoming space for anyone interested in learning more about programming and data analysis, with a particular focus on biodiversity, conservation and ecological topics. Our goal has always been to foster an environment of collaborative experimentation, where participants share code, learn from one another, and grow together—regardless of their level of experience. Everyone is encouraged to contribute, express their ideas freely, and engage as equals. We firmly believe that learning is a mutual process, independent of expertise levels, and that doing it together is not only more effective but also more enjoyable.More than seven years—and a pandemic—later, the INBO Coding Club remains vibrant and thriving. We are excited to share the strategies that have helped sustain this initiative, transforming initial enthusiasm into a widely recognized and enduring effort both within and beyond INBO.Key lessons learned include:Learn together: Create a supportive space where every question is valued, and mistakes are celebrated as opportunities for growth.As live as possible, as remote as necessary: Live coding in the same room is far more engaging and effective than remote sessions.Community-driven evolution: The club should always prioritize the needs of its community, with feedback playing a central role in shaping its activities.Dedication: A committed core team is essential for the consistent and sustainable organization of club activities.Full openness: All session materials—including data, slides, code, and recordings—are freely available to everyone.
| Period | 23-Oct-2025 |
|---|---|
| Event title | Living Data 2025: Joint TDWG, GBIF, GEO BON and OBIS conference |
| Event type | Conference |
| Location | Bogota, ColombiaShow on map |
| Degree of Recognition | International |