While there is no doubt about the significant gains to be made from using digital tools to unlock programme efficiencies through learning, it is important to reflect critically on any limitations of these solutions. We believe there is a balance to be found and that it would be wise to consider a human-enablement approach. One that combines information technology and traditional learning methodologies, such as community workshops and blended learning models.
Where are the limits of digital tool frontiers?
A report authored by Propel and the Knowledge Platform Security & Rule of Law (KPSRL) identifies four limitations of being totally dependent upon digital tools in the developmental context. These are:
- Technical constraints: Digital tools do not operate effectively in regions where technological infrastructure is low, which reduces the accessibility and functionality of these tools. The report notes issues with variable internet connectivity and hardware that prohibit the large scale use of such tools.
- Digital literacy variability: Differences in digital literacy among users have been seen to cause disparities in effectiveness with which digital tools are put to use. This may result in the creation of an uneven learning field, with lost opportunities for some participants, especially in cases where the development of digital skills is not harmonised.
- Cultural sensitivity and local context: A few of these sensitive and complex issues exist in in the domain of digital tools. If a tool is not designed in a way that incorporates the local context, the Propel | PLI Observation Report indicates how we can either miss or misinterpret cultural norms and practices in a less effective way.
- Engagement and interaction limitations: According to the report, in spite of their efficiency, such tools cannot – in isolation – build up deep interpersonal relations that lead to effective learning and decision-making. A lack of traditional interaction reduces the quality of discussions and the results of collaborative effort.
After all, we’re all real people!
The importance of applying a human-enablement approach
To overcome these constraints, a hybrid approach that combines traditional practices with the digital and in-person interaction is very important. Here are the benefits of using this approach:
- Great accessibility: A hybrid approach enables knowledge management and learning practitioners to offer more to the participants by organisations who are devoid of technology or have minimal access to it.
- Inclusive power: There’s much to be said about the inclusive power of a face-to-face meeting. Age old human contact not only helps programme managers convey points that are not passed on to a person in digital content, but also to build healthy work relationships in the team.
- Tailored training: The combination of digital and traditional ways allows us to tailor training programmes according to different levels of digital literacy. Workshops or hands-on sessions can complement online resources by making them more practical and able to bridge the gap for learners who are less familiar with technology.
- Cultural relevance: A blend of traditional with digital tools can help address cultural sensitivities. Local facilitators or community leaders can apply the digital tools to support their in-person interactions, ensuring that the content is culturally relevant and sensitive to local practices.
- Better response rates: Combining digital tools with face-to-face contact occasionally improves the response rates of respondents. Face-to-face meetings encourage a more participatory discussion, instant feedback and closeness in relationship building, which, in cases where issues to be discussed are intricate or sensitive, may be the winning factor.
Considerations for integrating traditional methods
Illustrations presented by the report from Propel and KPSRL show that diversified use of traditional and digital methods yields favourable outcomes. Possible formats include:
- Community workshops: In low virtuality regions, workshops within the community, supported by the local strategic deployment of experts, can be complemented by online training in a blended approach. This offers access to the learning opportunity to all participants, regardless of the possibility that they might or might not have the possibility to access the infrastructure and technology to access the Internet and its contents.
- Blended learning models: Blended learning models, which combine online and in-person sessions, are becoming common in organisations. For instance, online courses can be combined with periodic in-person meetings or field visits to consolidate learning or deal with particular issues.
In summary, while digital tools offer a world of benefits in terms of programmatic learning and operational efficiency for the SRoL sector, they are not a solution in isolation. When it comes to learning that maximises developmental outcomes, it is important to introduce a nuanced strategy, combining digital innovations with conventional methodologies, so that optimum learning can be realised towards programme goals – goals that are achieved.