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Creative and Participatory Inquiry in Practice 2026 is an international research conference hosted by De Montfort University in Leicester, United Kingdom. Taking place on 19–20 November 2026, the event brings together academics, practitioners, artists, community organisations and policymakers to explore innovative and collaborative research approaches that create meaningful social impact. The conference focuses on creative inquiry methods, participatory research practices and interdisciplinary collaboration across education, health, arts, social sciences and community development. Conference Overview Research is increasingly moving beyond traditional academic boundaries. This conference demonstrates how collaborative approaches involving researchers and communities can generate practical solutions for real-world challenges. Participants will learn how creative methodologies such as visual arts, storytelling, digital media, performance and participatory action research can improve research outcomes while engaging diverse audiences. Across two days, delegates will experience keynote presentations from internationally recognised scholars, panel discussions, practical workshops and interactive sessions designed to encourage knowledge sharing and partnership development. Why Attend? The conference provides opportunities to: Discover innovative research methodologies. Learn from internationally recognised experts. Share successful case studies. Explore interdisciplinary collaboration. Build partnerships with universities and organisations. Develop practical research skills. Exchange ideas with international delegates. Understand community-engaged research. Gain professional development opportunities. Expand academic and professional networks. Key Themes Topics covered throughout the conference include: Participatory Action Research Creative Research Methods Community Engagement Digital Innovation in Research Arts-Based Methodologies Social Justice Research Inclusive Research Design Public Engagement Knowledge Exchange Policy Impact Each session demonstrates how collaborative research contributes to sustainable social and economic development. Conference Programme The programme features a combination of academic excellence and practical learning, including: Opening keynote address Expert panel discussions Research paper presentations Interactive workshops Poster exhibitions Networking lunches Community partnership sessions Collaborative research showcases Closing reflections and future directions These sessions encourage delegates to exchange ideas while developing new partnerships for future research projects. Featured Speakers Leading researchers and practitioners from UK and international universities will discuss emerging trends in participatory inquiry. Topics include community-led innovation, digital storytelling, inclusive education, environmental research, public health engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration. Delegates will gain practical insights that can be applied across higher education, government, healthcare, charities and private industry. Professional Development Participants can strengthen their expertise through practical workshops that demonstrate how to: Design participatory research projects. Engage stakeholders effectively. Collect qualitative data creatively. Improve research impact. Communicate findings to wider audiences. Build long-term research collaborations. These sessions are valuable for both experienced researchers and those beginning their academic careers. Networking Opportunities Dedicated networking sessions provide opportunities to meet: International academics Research funders Community organisations Industry representatives Government agencies Doctoral researchers Policy professionals These interactions often lead to collaborative publications, funded research projects and long-term professional partnerships. Venue The Georgian Rooms at De Montfort University provide an excellent setting for academic conferences. Located on the university's Leicester campus, the venue offers modern conference facilities, comfortable meeting spaces and easy access to city-centre transport links. Delegates can also explore Leicester's cultural attractions, museums, restaurants and historic landmarks during their visit. Benefits for Delegates Attendees will leave with: New research knowledge Practical methodologies International contacts Collaboration opportunities Greater research impact Professional inspiration Access to emerging research trends Enhanced career development The conference aims to encourage innovative thinking while promoting collaboration across disciplines and sectors. Creative and Participatory Inquiry in Practice 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity for researchers and professionals interested in collaborative and socially engaged research. Through keynote presentations, interactive workshops and valuable networking opportunities, delegates will gain practical knowledge that supports impactful research and innovation. Hosted by De Montfort University, this event continues the university's commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research and strengthening partnerships that address global challenges.

The Bauer Media Careers & Skills Workshop is an immersive event designed to bridge the gap between aspiring talent and the fast-paced world of modern media. Hosted at Bauer Media's prominent operational hub in Peterborough, this session serves as a gateway for individuals looking to break into the industry, whether their interests lie in digital publishing, commercial radio, or audio production. As the home to some of the UK’s most beloved brands—including Absolute Radio, Grazia, and Empire—Bauer Media's Peterborough office provides the perfect backdrop for professional growth. This workshop goes beyond standard career fairs by offering a deep dive into the specific skills required to succeed in a digital-first media landscape. Attendees will participate in interactive breakout sessions led by industry experts, covering topics such as content creation, digital marketing, and the technical side of audio broadcasting. Participants will have the unique opportunity to network with hiring managers and current team members who drive the success of Bauer's diverse portfolio. The day is structured to provide actionable advice on CV building for the creative industries, interview techniques that stand out, and insights into the future of audio advertising. Whether you are a student, a recent graduate, or a professional looking to pivot your career, this event offers the tools and connections necessary to navigate the evolving media ecosystem. Join us for a day of inspiration and practical learning. You will leave with a clearer understanding of the "Bauer way" and the various pathways available within one of Europe’s leading media groups. Don’t miss your chance to engage with the creators behind the UK’s most influential media brands and take the next step in your professional journey.

The OGC Smart Cities Interoperability Workshop is a hands-on, intensive event dedicated to solving the complex challenges of data silos in modern urban environments. In the heart of Nottingham, a city renowned for its commitment to sustainable transport and green energy, this workshop brings together technical experts to bridge the gap between theoretical standards and practical implementation. The core focus of this event is the application of OGC standards like CityGML and SensorThings API to create a seamless flow of information across various city departments. The workshop is structured to move quickly from high-level concepts to real-world coding and configuration. Participants will engage in "sprint-style" sessions where they attempt to integrate disparate data feeds—such as live traffic sensors, air quality monitors, and building energy usage—into a unified visualization dashboard. This collaborative environment encourages peer-to-peer learning and the sharing of "battle-tested" solutions for common interoperability hurdles. Expert mentors from the OGC community will be on hand to provide guidance on schema mapping, API security, and data harvesting techniques. One of the unique aspects of this Nottingham event is the focus on "Green Interoperability." As cities face increasing pressure to meet net-zero targets, the ability to accurately measure and report environmental metrics is vital. We will explore how OGC standards facilitate the monitoring of carbon footprints at a granular level, allowing for more effective local government interventions. The event concludes with a demonstration gallery, where workshop groups present their integrated solutions to a panel of industry veterans. This is not just a learning exercise; the prototypes developed here often serve as the foundation for future grant applications and commercial products. By participating, you become part of a global movement dedicated to making our cities more efficient, livable, and resilient through the power of open, standardized data.