Tools for knowledge and learning: a guide for development and humanitarian organisations

Thirty tools and techniques for knowledge sharing and learning

By: Ramalingam B
Published by: Research and Policy in Development (RAPID), ODI , 2006
Via: Eldis

The idea of capturing, storing and sharing knowledge so as to learn lessons from the past and from elsewhere - overcoming the boundaries posed by time and space - is far from being a new one. In recent years, a growing movement has emphasised the improved application of knowledge and learning as a means to improve development and humanitarian work. The movement has led to the widespread adoption of learning and knowledge-based strategies among the range of agencies involved in such work, including donor agencies, multilaterals, NGOs, research institutes, and the plethora of institutions based in the South, including national governments, regional organisations, and indigenous NGOs. This guide is aimed at staff working in all such organisations. There are 30 tools and techniques described, divided into five categories:

• strategy development
• management techniques
• collaboration mechanisms
• knowledge sharing and learning processes
• knowledge capture and storage.

Many of these tools are simple and trying them out requires nothing more than the desire to try something new, and the drive to "get on and do it". Undertaking them effectively requires effective - sometimes advanced - facilitation and communication skills. This toolkit aims to provide comprehensive accounts of how to apply such techniques, with a focus on the requirements of potential facilitators.

Other tools covered are more complex, and call for significant planning and resources if they are to be delivered effectively. The toolkit aims to provide an introduction and orientation to these, as well as suggestions for further resources that might prove useful for the reader.