Brief Report: PAAR-Net Training School on Knowledge Synthesis
4th-6th September, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany

I first learned about the PAAR-Net Training School on Knowledge Synthesis through the emails from COST Action CA21122 – PROmoting GeRiAtric Medicine IN countries where it is still eMerGing (PROGRAMMING). Inspired by the invitation, I decided to apply for a grant and was fortunate enough to receive one to attend.

The Training School turned out to be an incredibly enriching experience. It provided a solid foundation for synthesizing knowledge from diverse sources, a skill that has become critical in today’s information-heavy world. The sessions on conducting thorough literature reviews, evaluating research findings, and deriving actionable insights were highly practical and insightful. The instructors brought exceptional expertise, and the collaborative atmosphere fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas among participants.

A key highlight for me was the emphasis on inclusive social innovation. The participatory approaches, especially those involving older adults, closely aligned with my research on age-friendly spaces and services. The focus on engaging socially excluded older adults also resonated with my role as a coordinator of a third age university, making the training highly relevant to my work.

Overall, this experience enhanced my research skills while providing valuable networking opportunities with researchers from diverse backgrounds. It was an exceptional opportunity that will greatly influence my ongoing and future work.