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Learning Lab – from Researcher to Critical Curator

Learning Lab – from Researcher to Critical Curator

UXinsight Learning Lab · Minke Tromp and Katy Barnard

As insights professionals, we find ourselves in a new landscape. Data is everywhere, and AI-powered tools make it easier for anyone to conduct research. Our task is evolving: from doing the research to guiding others and curating trustworthy knowledge. We are becoming the critical curators who keep insights reliable, relevant, and actionable.

But what does that mean in practice, and what skills do we need to succeed? That’s the focus of our first UXinsight Learning Lab.

What is the UXinsight Learning Lab?

It’s all about growing together as a UXR community. We start with today’s challenges and turn them into meaningful conversations. Two inspiring speakers—one with a strong theoretical view and the other with practical experience—set the stage. Then it’s your turn: through interactive and breakout sessions, we turn ideas into concrete actions you can take back to your daily work.

The program

Grow your critical thinking muscles with Minke Tromp

“How AI Makes Us More Human” is not a paradox, but a practice. By questioning what data can’t see, we reclaim the essence of thought itself.

AI accelerates information; critical thinking transforms it into meaning. These times call upon us to challenge assumptions and reframe problems before solving them.

In Minke’s keynote, she explores how the art of questioning – and the courage to think beyond what the algorithm can predict – may well be the most human skill in the age of automation.

Becoming a critical curator with Katy Barnard

Katy works in a compact team of design researchers at Stby. Over the last 1.5 years, their team has been exploring what it means to be a qualitative researcher in the age of AI, welcoming and developing a collaborative practice with their artificial teammates.In this talk, Katy will share practical learnings and inspiring guidelines for how we, as researchers, can and need to become critical curators in our hybrid-intelligence workflows. Seeing AI as a teammate can help us transform the way we collaborate with it, bringing in new roles for us as human researchers to take on, too.

Translate to your daily practice in peer groups

The UXinsight Learning Lab is not just about listening; it’s about doing. Together, we’ll turn ideas into at least one concrete action you can bring into your daily work.

We’ll provide you with reflective exercises and templates. You’ll be working in peer groups.

Speakers

  • Minke Tromp

  • Katy Barnard

Philosopher and Speaker on Thinking, Questioning, and Connecting

Minke Tromp is a sought-after speaker who combines philosophical depth with humor,  interaction, and sharp analysis. Whether addressing major questions about ethics and technology, examining thought patterns within organizations, or improving the quality of dialogue, Minke moves her audience – both mentally and emotionally. 

With a background in Philosophy of Management and Organization as well as Organizational Anthropology, Minke has in-depth knowledge of both theory and practice. This enables her to make complex topics accessible and to engage participants in reflective, interactive conversations. Her professional experience with companies, business schools, and diverse organizations gives her the insights to connect with varied audiences and build relevant bridges. 

Minke’s Website – Profile picture by Kim Marivoet –

Design researcher for positive and meaningful change

Katy Barnard is a design researcher at Stby in Amsterdam. They specialize in qualitative research and digital design, exploring how technology shapes human experiences. Their work helps organizations such as Spotify, Google, Ford, Amazon, and What Design Can Do create more ethical, sustainable, and human-centered solutions.

Originally from the west coast of the US, Katy holds a master’s degree in Digital Design from the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences. Throughout their career, they have remained committed to work that connects people, fosters meaning, and prioritizes well-being for people and the planet. Currently, their work focuses significantly on how AI impacts teamwork and relationships.

Katy’s LinkedIn

Practical details

Agenda

  • 13:30 Registration & grab a coffee
  • 14:00 Welcome & Keynote Minke Tromp ‘Critical Thinking’
  • 15:00 Where are our organisations at risk?
  • 15:45 Keynote Katy Barnard ’Becoming a critical curator of AI’
  • 16:30 Interactive: How will YOU become a critical curator?
  • 17:30 Drinks & networking
  • 18:00 END

Who it’s for

Mid- to senior-level professionals shaping how organisations understand their users: UX researchers, design researchers, service designers, CX specialists, market researchers, designers.

Venue

The UXinsight Learning Lab is an in-person event at de Zalen van Zeven in Utrecht, the Netherlands. This inspiring former church on Boothstraat offers a spacious, light-filled setting perfect for reflection and discussion.

📍 Boothstraat 7, 3512 BT Utrecht

What you’ll walk away with

  • A clear understanding of the critical curator role.
  • Practical ways to recognise where your organisation needs stronger insight curation.
  • Insight into the risks of not curating knowledge well.
  • Personal reflection: Are you ready to step into this role?

Join the next UXinsight Learning Lab and explore whether you’re ready to become a critical curator.

Register now!

  • Critical thinking for better insights
  • 2 keynotes · Interactive sessions
  • Dec 1 · 14:00–18:00 CET
  • In-person, Utrecht (NL)
  • Limited spots

€195 (ex VAT)