Learning Approaches and Tools

Learning is a process through which individuals acquire knowledge, skills or competencies by studying, practicing, being taught or experiencing something. Learning can be facilitated through face-to-face trainings, electronic learning (e-learning) or experiential learning.

These learning approaches can assist Parties, partner organizations and relevant stakeholders to improve the design, delivery, monitoring and evaluation of their learning activities in support of the effective implementation of the Convention and its Protocols.

Capacity Development Resources

CBD in a Nutshell: A Guidebook to the CBD Process
1st edition (Dec. 2016) 2nd edition (Nov. 2018)
Training Manual for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities on the Convention on Biological Diversity English Spanish
CBD Technical Series No.96: The Global Taxonomic Initiative: Examples of Capacity Development Activities (pg. 43)
CBD Technical Series No.94: Step-by-step guide for developing DNA-barcoding capacity
CBD Capacity-Building Handbook: Designing and Delivering Effective Training

Additional Resources

UN Climate Change: Toolkit to assess capacity building gaps and needs (2023)
FAO e-learning Academy: Guide for designing and delivering e-learning solutions (2021)
FAO: Capacity Development Evaluation Framework (2019)
Pact Organizational Performance Index: Measuring Change in Organizational Performance (2017)
UNSDG: Capacity Development UNDAF Companion Guidance (2017)
UNDP: Measuring Capacity (2010)
UNICEF: Learning and Knowledge Exchange Toolbox: How to Plan and Implement Successful Knowledge Sharing Events
Global Environment Facility (GEF): Monitoring Guidelines of Capacity Development in GEF Projects (2010)
GEF Resource Kit: National Capacity Self-Assessment (2005)
GEF Partnership: Results-Focused Planning Guide
GEF Knowledge Exchange: Instruments (EN,FR,ES) and Activities (EN,FR,ES)

Face-to-face training is a process where participants and instructors meet and interact in-person, which allows for in-person interaction, networking, and greater engagement. Face-to-face training takes place through workshops, seminars, conferences, symposiums and short courses.

Experiential learning, or active learning through concrete experience, allows individuals to deepen their knowledge and develop skills through practice and reflection or learning through experience. This type of learning is facilitated by internships, mentorships, staff exchanges or through the implementation of pilot / demonstration projects.

E-learning involves the use of computer-based tools, mobile devices and other electronic means. E-learning offers greater flexibility and convenience to participants in terms of time, location, and means of access to learning content. Different e-learning methods, tools and media are currently being used, including self-paced modules, massive open online courses (MOOCs), webinars, as well as multimedia tools such as podcasts. Social media and other new technologies such as gamification, interactive videos and simulations (virtual reality) are increasingly being integrated into e-learning platforms, making them increasingly interactive and engaging.