The Fiasco Fest creates space for researchers to talk openly about hurdles and failures. Developed by Sabine Bergner and Johanna Stadlbauer in Graz, it is now being rolled out across Europe!
Failure and rejection are part of life, but preferably not one’s own!
This statement captures the essence of the current culture of failure in academia. Setbacks and defeats are common occurrences throughout one’s career, but they are often perceived as shameful and not openly discussed. At first glance, avoiding discussions about rejection and failure might seem like a minor issue. However, a closer look reveals several negative consequences such as unrealistic expectations, a fear of taking risks or mental health issues. Excellent research requires adequate support to ensure as few things go wrong as possible, but if they do, there needs to be a culture that makes it possible to address that. That is a cornerstone of research integrity. The main goal of the Fiasco Fest goes Arqus initiative is to destigmatise rejection in academia, and promote learning from mistakes in a supportive environment
Funded through the Arqus European University Alliance Innovation Fund, the Fiasco Fest goes Arqus initiative consists of three components:
- The workshop, known as “Fiasco Fest”, serves as the core of the initiative. It is a three-hour experience lab, designed to provide a safe and open space for PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers to share their stories of setbacks and failures.
- The collaborative session, referred to as “Train the Trainer”, equips trainers from at least five Arqus universities with the essential tools and techniques to independently lead the “Fiasco Fest” themselves. Professionals will learn to establish the safe space required for the “Fiasco Fest” and adeptly guide its participants through the event.
- The manual, referred to as the Pedagogy Playbook, will support the trainers in effectively preparing for and conducting the Fiasco Fest. It will provide structured and organised information about the Fiasco Fest’s content, objectives, activities and procedures.
