For the last two year, the Computation & Data Seminar Series has served as a space for knowledge exchange on topics related to High Performance Computing (HPC). However, participation patterns and logistical challenges have highlighted the need for a fresh approach. Starting in the second quarter of 2025, the format will undergo a transformation to create a more interactive and engaging learning environment.

The Original Concept: Challenges and Limitations

The seminar series, organized as part of the HPC initiative, has traditionally followed a structured format: two invited speakers present their research on HPC-related topics, followed by a brief Q&A session. Meetings take place once a month and typically attract a small but engaged audience.

However, several challenges have emerged over time:

• The lecture-style format limits interaction and engagement.
• Attempts to create a more inviting atmosphere is challenging in a closed lecture-style format.
• Problem-solving strategies and methodology is mostly limited to the presented project and can often not be applied into own research projects.

The New Vision: A More Interactive Learning Space

Recognizing the potential for improvement, the seminar series is being redesigned with three main objectives:

Flexible Learning Possibilities

Recognizing the diversity in learning preferences, the HPC Portal employs a range of delivery channels, including digital platforms, hybrid models, blended learning approaches, and on site sessions. This ensures accessibility and flexibility for participants, allowing them to engage with the content in a manner that suits their preferences.

1. Shifting from Passive to Active Learning

The new format will move beyond passive knowledge transfer by fostering interactive learning experiences. While expert talks will still be a core element, the goal is to encourage deeper engagement through guided discussions, structured moderation, and interactive elements.

2. Introducing the HPC Café – A Space for Collaboration

A major innovation is the introduction of the HPC Café, a dedicated space for informal peer-to-peer learning. This additional hour will provide a structured yet relaxed setting where participants can discuss HPC-related challenges, exchange ideas, and receive support from experienced researchers. The café format aims to lower barriers for early-career scientists, who may hesitate to present their work in a formal seminar setting.

3. Optimizing Organization and Speaker Engagement

To reduce the workload involved in securing speakers, each session will now feature only one invited talk instead of two. This change will allow for more in-depth discussions while easing the burden on organizers. A rotating moderation team will also be introduced to ensure that discussions remain structured and engaging.

Expected Impact and Future Prospects

The revised format aims to achieve several key benefits:

• Increased participation by providing multiple engagement options (formal talks + informal discussions).
• Stronger support for early-career researchers, giving them a platform to seek feedback without formal presentation pressure.
• A more efficient and sustainable event structure with high-quality content and space for individual questions and problems.
• Peer-to-Peer interaction and synergie-effects by working together on related problems.
• General Improvement of the HPC User Community and low-level access to it.

To ensure the success of these changes, a structured evaluation process will be implemented, including participant surveys and feedback loops. The hope is that this transformation will not only revitalize the seminar series but also foster a more connected and collaborative HPC research community.