Training pack on community-based approaches to security

In 2010, Saferworld developed a training pack on ‘community-based approaches to security’ for communities affected by conflict. The training pack was then tested in communities in Eastern Abkhazia and Shida Kartli, where it received a positive response. The training pack includes: (1) a training programme; (2) lesson units for each stage of the programme; and (3) a series of handouts to accompany the lessons. The handouts are available in three languages – English, Georgian and Russian.

This training follows Kolb’s learning cycle (also known as experiential learning), which relates theory to practice. The learning cycle typically starts from participants’ concrete experiences. Participants reflect on these and a theoretical framework is introduced to complement their practical experience. Participants expand their practical experience by applying the theory to case studies, scenarios and role plays (active experimentation). These in turn provide new experiences, on which participants can again reflect and start another learning cycle.

The development of the training pack was funded by the UK Conflict Pool.