Improving knowledge and skills
From the list below, you can choose a method according to the level of learning you require, the number of staff within your organisation who you would like to paritcipate, and the means of delivery.
| Description of learning method | Benefits and suitability | |
| Special courses for groups | Intensive learning programmes developed in consultation with you to meet your specific organisational needs. | Develops specific knowledge and skills in technical and managerial staff in areas of known weakness. |
| Face-to-face | Typically two to three week courses run either in a country of your choice, region of operation, or at WEDC. | Targets staff from the client and partner organisations operating in specific geographical areas. |
| Paper-based distance learning | Paper-based learning materials are sent to participants. Study time is typically three to six months over a specific calendar period. | Targeted training for staff from client and partner organisations working in a number of countries or regions with similar training needs. |
| E-learning | Training materials are delivered electronically. The programme can be studied over any period and at any time to suit both you and your staff. | Increased flexibility in delivery timing. (Requires reliable high-speed internet connections.) |
| Video-linked learning | A mix of face-to-face, paper-based and e-learning. Materials are provided and complemented by video-linked lecture presentations providing opportunities for dialogue with instructors. | Suitable for large audiences based at multiple locations and able to access high-speed internet and video connections simultaneously. |
| Career development programmes | A longer programme of training developed from a training needs assessment of your organisation. The programme is delivered by a combination of the teaching modes described above. The final qualifications are accredited by you as a recognised qualification for your organisation. | Raises the knowledge and skills of a range of staff with clear accreditation benchmarks linked to promotion and career progression. |
| Postgraduate courses | Programmes for those already holding a first degree in a relevant subject. Master of Science (MSc), Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate. | Provides a theoretical foundation in water supply, sanitation and infrastructure provision, operation and management. |
| Campus-based programmes | One year full-time taught programmes at WEDC. | Professional development of junior staff targeted as future middle and senior leaders. |
| Distance learning programmes | Same programmes as above but studied at home while continuing to undertake normal duties. Duration from one to eight years. | As above, but at a lower overall cost at the same time as retaining the services of the trainee. |
| Professional development programmes | Elements of either of the two programmes described above. Can accrue credits towards postgraduate programmes in the UK and in Europe. | Improves the knowledge and skills of graduate staff in specific areas of importance to the organisation. |
| PhD | Three years full-time or five years part- time. Research-based learning for individuals. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). | Individual training targeted at future leaders of the organization. Independent and in-depth investigation of an aspect of water supply and sanitation. |
| WEDC International Conferences | Held regularly in either Africa or Asia. Papers presented by researchers and practitioners on current research, innovation and field experience. | Suitable for senior and middle-level professionals. Improves exposure to an international audience, increases confidence in public speaking and provides networking opportunities with colleagues and potential partners. |