Learning Networks. Increasing Program Reach Through Facilitated Learning and Sharing. Grants Under Contract 2009

Transcription

1 Learning Networks Increasing Program Reach Through Facilitated Learning and Sharing Grants Under Contract 2009

2 The Idea behind Learning Networks How can $13 billion in USAID funding help 3 billion poor people? Answer: A New Approach to Knowledge Invest in replicable, scaleable innovations Engage practitioners with each other at all stages of the knowledge cycle to speed innovation, adaptation, adoption

3 The Knowledge Cycle An integrated Approach Knowledge Generation Knowledge Capture Knowledge Application Knowledge Dissemination and Sharing

4 Learning Networks Overview Purpose: Enable technical exchanges, discussion, and learning on approaches and tools used by grantees in the program. Goals: 1) Create valuable peer-based learning resources and interactions for network members (internal learning / learning at project level) 2) Capture and share that learning with the wider development community. (external learning / learning at industry-level) How? In-person and online collaboration, focused around explicit learning goals, developed and adopted by the network.

5 Learning Network Roles and Responsibilities Learning networks require coordination among several partners: USAID/MD office Advisor leads planning and ensures Network activities meet USAID/MD objectives. Learning Network Facilitator provides technical expertise and leadership for the Network, helps guide activities, shape technical outputs, and achieve goals of the learning agenda. KDMD Knowledge & Learning Specialist Supports and advises the Facilitator, provides infrastructure to support Learning Network activities, and helps guide participants toward their goals. Learning Network Members (Grantees) - comprise the Learning Network individual engagement builds value for the network. Members: Articulate the value statement (Charter) Design the Learning Agenda Propose Knowledge Products Actively participate in learning activities on track parallel to project implementation

6 Learning Network Phases Phase I: Assess & Plan Launch Workshop brings Members together to learn about each other s projects Identify industry-level gaps Assess available needs, resources, and inputs, tools, opportunities and constraints Members design a Learning Agenda Members agree on next steps and identify Learning Milestones Phase II: Build & Engage Activities are implemented; With support, the grantees increasingly sustain the network through their own initiative and leadership Participants scale up learning activities to create knowledge products that will promote their work to the public and impact overall USAID investments Phase III: Evaluate & Adjust The Facilitator follows a plan to evaluate each phase and make necessary adjustments to ensure activities align purpose and value

7 Knowledge & Learning Activities Internal Learning Leveraging Learning for the Industry Regular check-in calls Webinars (Virtual workshops) Online discussions Collaborative space for sharing resources Learning diaries Learning maps Peer Assist activities Notes from the Field Speaker s Corners / online discussions Sharing in blogs/forums Audio screencasts Audio interviews Seminar presentation Webinar Peer Assist Wiki

8 Critical Elements of Success Clear expectations, roles and requirements for the various partners in the network Network goals and activities are aligned with member objectives (they provide clear value and incentives for participation) Activities reflect member behavior and leverage existing work processes Strong leadership catalyzes and sustains activity and adjusts if the network is not meeting expectations Regular communication

9 Questions for Discussion What are your current knowledge and learning resources and practices? Where do you go to get industry info, and how do you use it, share it, apply it? What kind of activities would enhance your continued learning and bring value to you? How do you see your work contributing to the industry at large? USAID s development context? What are possible challenges to collaboration and open knowledge sharing in the Learning Network? How will a Learning Network help achieve your (project/professional) objectives?