6  Using OpenWASH modules for short residential courses

The OpenWASH modules can also be used as foundation materials for short residential courses in a college or other training centre. This could be two or three days over a weekend or a four- or five-day course during the week, run as a single event or a series, depending on how much material you want to cover. For example, you could base a week-long course on a single OpenWASH module or spread it over two or three weekends that included other practical activities as well. The consistent structure of the OpenWASH modules, with 15 two-hour study sessions in each module, facilitates planning and adaptation to different timings and schedules.

We suggest that the approach to using the modules for short courses is similar to that for classroom teaching and requires lesson planning combined with other activities. It is important to provide a variety of activities so that students continue to be motivated and engaged with the materials. The OpenWASH modules provide the text-based foundation of knowledge that you can combine and enhance with hands-on activity and group work.

Time management is always important for training activities, but especially so if you have limited time and are working to a tight schedule. To make best use of the time available, you may want to provide copies of the modules to students before the course starts and ask them to work through particular sections or answer some of the SAQs beforehand. When you meet at the training centre, you and they will have already made a start with the programme. This will enable you to focus on group activities and practical exercises that cannot be undertaken individually. This optimises the value of the programme of study and makes best use of the time available.