THE JOY OF LEARNING:

Abstract

Khanal, S, Mendoza, R, Phiri, C, Rop, R, Snel, M and van Wijk, C (2003). The Joy of Learning: Participatory lesson plans on hygiene, sanitation, water, health and the environment. Delft, the Netherlands, IRC International Water and Sanitation Centre. (TP 45). 100 p. Includes a bibliography. The Joy of Learning: Participatory lesson plans on hygiene, sanitation, water, health and the environment is a guide for teachers and others who want to design participatory learning activities on hygiene and sanitation as part of, or in addition to, their school curriculum or in work with other children aged 2 to 14. The document is divided into two parts: theory and lesson plans. The lesson plans are organised into three sections: hygiene (including personal and food hygiene), sanitation and water. Each section contains a series of information sheets for planning, implementing and evaluating participatory learning activities on a specific subject. Examples include personal hygiene, the safe transport and handling of water, protecting local water sources, and locally prevailing disease transmission routes. The guide is characterised by its participatory methodology, the possibility of adjusting each activity to local conditions and cultures, a combination of hygiene and health education with more formal education goals, a focus on socio-psychological life skills such as cooperation and mutual understanding, and the linking of learning activities in schools, homes and communities. Activities require the exclusive use of noand low-cost materials which are easily available and affordable. A work in progress This guide is dynamic and interactive because it is a work in progress. In the next phase of this publication, the lesson plans will be tested in different geographical areas. The present version does not cover all possible topics for every age group in each subject area. Other participatory methods and activities could be added. And although methods, materials and activities stem from different world regions and cultures, the range of options could still be broadened to better express a wide variety of learning opportunities, needs and methods. Everyone who helps children between the ages of 2 and 14 to have fun while learning about hygiene, sanitation, water, health and the environment is most cordially invited to send us their reactions, criticism, suggestions and additions. In this way, a rich collection of materials will become available which will demonstrate how creative schoolchildren, teachers, parents and communities can be in improving local sanitation and hygiene practices, knowledge and attitudes in and through schools.