Resources

This Resource Guide is based on extensive work done in several African countries. It is intended to provide user-friendly ways to gather, manage and analyse information and data by applying participatory learning and action research, and to suggest ways to use this knowledge to develop strategies for integrated soil fertility management. It can best be seen as a toolkit. It includes a textbook (Part 1), a collection of cases that explore field experiences with participatory learning and action research (Part 2), a set of 'all-weather' Field Tools on laminated cards (Part 3), a CD-ROM including a software package to assist in analysing data (Part 4), and a manual with detailed versions of the Field Tools plus a user's guide to the software (Part 5).

Participatory approaches are widely used to encourage group members to become involved in processes. Activities such as drawing, role play and small group work can be particularly useful in HIV/AIDS work when exploring sensitive issues such as sexual experiences, vulnerability and risk. This guide is designed to be an ôideas bookö of shared experiences to help facilitators prepare for participatory workshops, meetings and planning activities with NGOs and CBOs responding to HIV/AIDS in developing countries. Drawing on the practical experiences of the Alliance and its partners, it is packed with effective ideas such as drawing community maps and active listening exercises