Network based training. Training elements will also be provided by the network-wide collective training activities. These are delivered via 2 key vehicles which are the e-Learning and Face-to-Face Environments for training.
1 - A network-wide information facility (IF), using free web2.0 tools the IF will deliver mailing lists, e-forums, an e-notice-board, on-line project management tool, social tools (wiki, facebook, tweets) and others tailored for the science community (citeulike; mendeley) and Open Access Publishing in European Networks (OAPEN). The IF will support 3 Annual general network e-Meetings (one per year), to discuss cross-cutting issues (as well as ESR training and findings). In addition, network wide e-workshops will also be delivered on the topics of: EW1 - statistical analysis of seed germination data, paper writing skills; EW2 - native seed production and trade regulations; EW3 - Key equipment appraisal in relation to seed bank design and storage techniques/seed-status monitoring. An electronic newsletter will also be published quarterly and a wiki space will be populated by user generated content to showcase the knowledge gained. These resources shall be organised and accessible via a single NASSTEC website based Resource Centre (hosted by MUSE).
2 - E-tutoring service. ESRs will discuss their individual research topic and needs jointly with the 2 project supervisors (the local and the associated one) on a quarterly basis as a minimum periodicity and each half year with the sub-programme Mentor using video conference facilities. Additional meetings are anticipated, arising as necessary and according to the specific needs of the ESR and topic area. Every meeting will be documented taking concise minutes that will be filed and copied to the coordinator. A skills and capability data base will be compiled for all partners. This will be used to encourage and support meaningful dialogue, with a view to increasing capability and impact of native seed science across all sectors.
3 - A video streaming service will also be used to progress further knowledge exchange by broadcasting relevant seminars across the network at regular intervals. This service will be structured to span the range of technologies, socio-economic and ethical factors involved in native seed biology. Over the course of the programme every partner will be expected to deliver at least one training seminar annually.
