Resources search

Communities of practice and networks : reviewing two perspectives on social learning

CUMMINGS, Sarah
VAN ZEE, Arin
May 2005

Expand view

This article examines the similarities between the concepts of 'community of practice' and 'networking for learning'. This article examines the common elements, and discusses the approaches, the characteristics, theoretical background and importance for development of each model. Next, similarities based on conceptions of social learning are explored. Finally, it is argued that communities of practice and networks for learning are part of the same continuum with varying degrees of formality, ranging from informal communities of practice to highly formal networks for learning. This article provides a valuable, relatively accessible introduction to the ideas of "networking" and "community of practice", discusses how they have evolved and explores how they can be useful to the development sector

First national study of disability in Chile

NATIONAL FUND FOR DISABILITY
May 2005

Expand view

Using the international classification of disability (ICF), this report presents information about the "prevalence of disability in its different types and degrees, and the extent in which this condition affects individuals in various aspects of their lives." The reports covers variables such as health conditions and socioeconomic and sociodemographic characteristics. This report is useful to anyone interested in disability in Chile

Organisational learning in NGOs : creating the motive, means and opportunity

BRITTON, Bruce
March 2005

Expand view

This paper explores the importance of organisational learning in NGOs. It examines why NGOs need to provide the motive, means and opportunity for organisational learning, and introduces practical examples of how pioneering NGOs are doing this. The Paper recognises that learning is understood differently across cultures and contexts but that most current models are based on a Western understanding. There is therefore a need to engage with capacity building practitioners to explore innovative approaches which are relevant, appropriate and accessible across a wide range of cultures and contexts

Towards equality : creation of the disability movement in Central Asia

KATSUI, Hisayo
2005

Expand view

This study looks at a political approach to civic activism in the field of disability, which is an approach that the two fields of development studies and disability studies have begun to focus on as a driving force for susatinable structural change.
The findings in the study are based on interviews conducted with Central Asian disabled people. Three main findings emerged: a vulnerability creation mechanism for disabled people, the heterogeneity of disabled people and the implications for equality

Participatory evaluation with young people

CHECKOWAY, Barry
RICHARDS-SCHUSTER, Katie
2005

Expand view

This workbook contains practical tools and learning activities to help young people 'learn for change' through good participatory evaluation practices. It is based on the premise that evaluation is an everyday experience for most young people and that it is crucial that they participate in the decisions that affect their lives. The suggested evaluation questions, methods of gathering information, exercises and other hands-on problem-solving tools are designed for small groups and training workshops. Although based on community development experience in the United States, these methods are easily adaptable to development work in the South

Building monitoring, evaluation and reporting systems for HIV/AIDS programs

MCCOY, Lynn
NGARI, Patricia Njeri
KRUMPE, Edwin E
2005

Expand view

This manual is for use by NGOs working in HIV and AIDS, and aims to assist them monitor, evaluate and report on the progress and delivery of their programmes. MER (monitoring, evaluation and reporting) is often seen as a time-consuming and expensive activity, with limited benefits to the programmes themselves. This resource is designed to provide simple, affordable, efficient and useful tools and ideas to enable organisations to enhance effectiveness and make an efficient use of their resources. Adopting a result-based approach to MER, this publication discusses key principles, suggests indicators and illustrates in some detail monitoring, evaluation and reporting activities. Each chapter includes activity worksheets to help the readers apply the content to their context and programme

Reifying capability theory in disability and rehabilitation research

SHARMA, Manoj
2005

Expand view

[Author's abstract]: Use of theory helps in improving practice. Research in disability and rehabilitation can benefit by using a microeconomics theory called Capability Theory by Amartya Sen. The purpose of this brief report is to discern measurable constructs of the Capability Theory and reify these constructs for use in disability and rehabilitation research. Based on review of literature pertaining to Capability Theory the constructs and applications are identified. Five constructs of this theory have been identified and defined, namely, exchange entitlements, characteristics, capabilities, functionings and well-being. Implications for using each of these constructs in disability and rehabilitation research have been discussed. Capability theory argues for egalitarian access to capabilities for all. Educational and policy level interventions can be designed to modify the construct of capabilities, in persons with disabilities

Preventing chronic diseases : a vital investment. Overview

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO)
2005

Expand view

This report urges health planners and decision-makers influence multisectoral government action to prevent chronic diseases. It dispels the long-held misunderstandings about heart disease, stroke, cancer and other chronic diseases that have contributed to their global neglect. It states clearly that 80% of the 35 million chronic disease-related deaths in 2005 will occur in low and middle income countries, where they affect men and women at younger ages than in high income countries. Premature deaths in countries such as China, India and the Russian Federation are projected to cost billions of dollars over the next 10 years

In the balance : disabled people's experiences of debt

KOBER, Claire
2005

Expand view

This report examines how disabled people become indebted as a result of social exclusion. Not only does this work delve into the causes and manifestations of social exclusion, it provides statistical analysis and testimony from disabled people. In its conclusions it provides a series of recommendations to alleviate debt, by appealing to governments, financial institutions and regulators. This resource would be useful to anyone with an interest in debt, finance and disability and development

NFE-MIS handbook : developing a sub-national non-formal education management information system

CRONNAL, Criana
SAUVAGEOT, Claude
2005

Expand view

This manual provides "an easy-to-use methodology for setting up a Non-Formal Education Management Information System (NFE-MIS). This includes a conceptual framework for NFE, prototype data collection tools, and guidelines for the development of NFE indicators as well as for data analysis. The methodology presented in this Handbook uses a practical, step-by-step approach...At the national level, the NFE-MIS aims at providing policy-makers and planners with reliable, relevant and timely data to allow for informed decision making, better planning and delivery of NFE as well as for monitoring and evaluation of the development of NFE"
ED/BAS/LIT/2005/1

E-bulletin