Since its creation in April 2024, the R&D Unplugged series served as a dynamic platform for exploring the impact of research in the real world. Organized by’Learning Transitions research unit, R&D Unplugged, this monthly seminar series invites international and interdisciplinary researchers to share their work, fostering an inclusive environment where participants can engage, learn and provide constructive feedback. Unlike technical research seminars for researchers, R&D Unplugged focuses on clear, accessible conversations for all citizens about research that matters. Everyone is welcome - no research background is necessary.
A hybrid format for a global commitment
Each R&D Unplugged session takes place in a hybrid format, enabling participants to take part either on-site at the Learning Planet Institute in Paris, or online from anywhere in the world. This approach guarantees accessibility and encourages a diversity of viewpoints. After each seminar, the sessions are recorded and put online, accompanied by a podcast episode featuring an in-depth conversation with the speaker.
Varied topics reflecting interdisciplinary research
The R&D Unplugged series offers an open and engaging format where researchers present some of the most pressing challenges and transformative ideas shaping education, technology and society today and tomorrow.
Over its first 14 episodes, the series focused on key themes such as the democracy and digital ecosystems(Pedro Ramaciotti-Morales on social media and politics; ; Seth Frey on online communities and self-determination), education for the ecological and societal transitions(Iveta Silova on planetary borders; Manon Sala on caring universities), education for development and sustainable’ education’environment; Manon Sala on solidarity universities; ; Ignacio Atal on teacher-led innovation; ; Maria Angelica Mejia Caceres on the worldview of educators), and the the evolving role of artificial intelligence(Jean-Marc Sevin and Serge Stinckwich on AI for sustainable development goals).
Other conversations focused on essential 21st century skills, such as digital literacy and source evaluation(Mônica Macedo-Rouet), participatory science and inclusion(Muki Haklay on citizen science), and ethical considerations in education and society(Laelia Benoit on infantilism; ; Carina Castagna on food waste).
Last but not least, several episodes highlighted the the power of collective intelligence and co-design(Marc Santolini and Olga Kokshagina), highlighting the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling complex real-world challenges.
Together, these dialogues reflect a dynamic and evolving research ecosystem committed to rethinking how we learn, teach and act in a changing world.
Why might research be the most powerful way to change the world?
When you're 20 and dreaming of changing the world, research may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But for many researchers, it's not just a career, but a way of thinking, questioning and building change from the ground up. In the R&D Unplugged podcast, The speakers shared six reasons for choosing research as a powerful way to make a difference.
1. Research, a state of mind and a method
Many R&D Unplugged guests see research not as a job, but as a state of mind: a deep curiosity about the world and a willingness to ask tough questions. ” Research teaches you to ask the right questions”, says Mônica Macedo-Rouet. Marc Santolini agrees, adding that this state of mind - rooted in curiosity and openness - can have beneficial effects on society. Manon Sala even compares research to the natural experimentation of babies: “Try, fail, try again”
2. Personal transformation before global change
Iveta Silova reminds us that to change the world, we must first understand and perhaps transform ourselves. In her view, research is not just about solving external problems, but also about reorienting our place in the world - a theme echoed by Maria Angelica Mejia Caceres, who sees research as a means of navigating misinformation and encouraging critical thinking.
3. A single space for independent impact
Pedro Ramaciotti Morales points out that research offers a type of professional autonomy rarely found elsewhere. Unlike the constraints of business or government, research can be a space relatively free from immediate economic or political pressures - ideal for developing independent ideas that require time and depth.
4. Collaborate, don't isolate
Far from the stereotype of the solitary scientist, many guests emphasize the intrinsically collective nature of research. Laelia Benoit and Muki Haklay highlight how research gives a voice to marginalized voices - such as those of children - and creates spaces for collaboration, notably through citizen science. Research can amplify many voices, not just your own.
5. The need for critical, interdisciplinary reflection
Jean-Marc Sevin and Serge Stinckwich stress the importance of being digitally literate - particularly in AI and data science - while remaining rooted in the humanities and social sciences. Serge advises cultivating “slow science take the time to think about answers, rather than rushing to premature solutions.
6. Find your passion, not someone else's
In the end, most guests agree: your search must stem from your own passion and experience. ” Everyone's already booked, says Manon Sala , so don't try to be someone else Seth Frey and Olga Kokshagina concur, urging young people to pursue their research in areas that reflect their unique experiences, values and vision.
7. The essentials
Research isn't just about publishing papers or staying in academia. It's about finding a disciplined and creative way to understand, question and contribute to the world. Whether you're passionate about education, environmental justice, child empowerment, digital ethics or design, there's room for your voice in research.
If you're 20 and wondering how to change the world, research could be your most powerful tool.!
Future prospects
As R&D Unplugged continues to grow, it remains committed to bridging the gap between research and society. By providing a space for open dialogue and knowledge sharing, the series contributes to a better understanding of how research can inform and transform our world. With each episode, R&D Unplugged reinforces the Learning Planet Institute's mission to foster innovation, collaboration and positive change through research.
