Learning for Development

Hazel Johnson is Professor of Development Policy at the Open University, UK. Gordon Wilson is Senior Lecturer in Technology and Development, also at the Open University, UK.

• Acknowledgements1. Why Learning For Development?2. Approaches to Learning For Development3. Contestation and Learning Between Multiple Stakeholders4. Joint Learning through Similarity, Difference And Mutuality In North-South Municipal Partnerships5. Changing the Self And Changing The Organization: Doing Things Better And Doing Them Differently6. Learning and Not Learning Through The Use Of Computer-Mediated Communication7. The Whys And Wherefores Of Learning For DevelopmentReferencesIndex

'I commend Johnson and Wilson for this excellent book in which they reflect on the role that learning can play in development. It deals with complex issues in a style that is both considered and clear; critical and committed. It should be required reading for those who unreflectively do development'Simon McGrath, Nottingham'Learning for Development is an exciting read for anyone working in the field, provoking thought by providing real case studies around 'development action'. It focuses on intentional development which is referred to in the book as development action, arguing that the actions of interveners are fundamentally part of and contribute to, development history. It looks at the context in which learning occurs as well as learning as a social process. The concept of "action learning space" can help identify the dynamics in communities through which learning has the potential to occur. Trust and communicative action are key ingredients of shared learning. The book shares practical examples of successes and challenges from which one can learn and then adapt to one’s own work. It is a “must read” for anyone interested in development.'Charlene Hewat, CEO, Environment Africa