Barcamp
Barcamp - More than just a conference
| Target Group | Educators/ Multipliers Different Ages Young Adults (18-24) Teenagers (13-17) |
| Used Methods | Learning By Doing Workshops Discussions |
| Categories | Critical Thinking Debating Taking Action |
| Level of Participation | Local Level |
| Approach | Low-Threshold |
| Format of the Method | Analog (Face To Face) |
| Duration of preparation | Medium-Term (1-6 Months) |
Duration
| From | Until |
Short Description
A barcamp is an open and participatory event format in which the participants are also co-organisers. In contrast to traditional conferences, there is no predetermined agenda – the programme is created on the day of the event itself based on suggestions from the participants. Anyone can contribute a topic, offer a session or actively participate in discussions.
Barcamps promote the open exchange of ideas, knowledge and experiences. They are particularly suitable for civil society, creative or digital projects. The focus is often on collaboration, diversity and democratic dialogue.
Ein Barcamp ist ein offenes und partizipatives Veranstaltungsformat, bei dem die Teilnehmenden zugleich Mitgestaltende sind. Im Gegensatz zu klassischen Konferenzen gibt es keine vorher festgelegte Agenda – das Programm entsteht am Veranstaltungstag selbst durch Vorschläge aus dem Kreis der Teilnehmenden. Jede*r kann ein Thema einbringen, eine Session anbieten oder sich aktiv an Diskussionen beteiligen.
Barcamps fördern den offenen Austausch von Ideen, Wissen und Erfahrungen. Sie eignen sich besonders für zivilgesellschaftliche, kreative oder digitale Projekte. Im Fokus stehen hierbei oft Zusammenarbeit, Vielfalt und demokratischer Dialog.
Step-by-step explanation
Step 1
Preparation & Organization
Set up an organizational team:
A small, dedicated team (2-6 people) is often enough.
Early planning:
1-3 months lead time for invitations, logistics, advertising.
Target group communication:
Website, social media, e-mail – multilingual if necessary.
Registration system:
Tools like Eventbrite or your own form.
Find sponsors:
For rooms, technology, catering and advertising materials.
Step 2
3. Procedure & Methodology
Welcome & Introduction:
Explanation of the Barcamp rules, a brief introduction to the procedure.
Session planning live:
Topic suggestions on the pinboard or digital wall, structure together.
Session Schedule:
Slots of 45–60 minutes, possibly running in parallel.
Documentation:
Shared pad, blog or social media (e.g. Etherpad, Miro, Instagram).
Conclusion & Feedback:
Reflection of the results and feedback round.
Step 3
Participants
Open to all:
Clearly communicate the target group, no participation requirements.
Active participation:
Everyone is a sharer – with ideas, questions, discussions.
Three-word introduction:
Entry method to loosen up and get to know each other.
Step 4
Communication & Language
Consider multilingualism:
Invitations and, if necessary, sessions also in English or other relevant languages.
Hashtag & Online Presence:
Unified hashtag for visibility and networking.
Step 5
Follow-up
Secure results:
Publish minutes, photos, videos or summaries.
Get feedback:
e.g. online survey – and derive follow-up events from it.
Results
In Ulm, ILEU e.V. and partners organized the “Komm.Treff! Barcamp & Hackathon” and “Hack4Ukraine” to support the integration of Ukrainian refugees. Participants co-created digital solutions such as the apps *Hilf Polina*, *Path U*, and *Keyoo*. A digital hub and expanded online platforms (ViMA Ulm/Danube) now offer Ukrainian-language support. The project fosters inclusion, dialogue, and a shared European identity through innovation and collaboration.
Goals
A barcamp is aimed at all interested parties, regardless of age, experience or professional background. The format is particularly suitable for young people, career starters, professionals and anyone who wants to get actively involved and learn from each other. It is therefore participative and inclusive.
The aim of the barcamp is to create an open space for knowledge exchange, discussion and networking. The focus is on active participation by all participants in order to jointly develop current topics, challenges and ideas.
Further goals are:
Intensive exchange of knowledge on current topics
Strengthening participants’ initiative and communication skills
Building new networks and collaborations
Documenting and passing on the content developed
What is needed
Venue & Infrastructure
Location:
Enough space for parallel sessions + retreats.
Internet & Strom:
Stable Wi-Fi, multiple sockets and extension cords.
Material & Technology:
Flipcharts, whiteboards, moderation cases, projectors, loudspeakers.
Catering:
Snacks, water, coffee – possibly lunch.
Products and Materials
| Documentation of the Project/Event | |
| Post Cards | |
| Poster | |
| Press Release | |
| Photo Gallery | |
| Video | |
| Blog | |
| Decoration: Flags/Bookmarks | |
| Information about the Danube Countries |