Course features
The course was designed and structured specifically for the Internet, with a three week learning process and content. Week 1 dealing with private sector participation - development, actors, interests. Week 2 with 'From public to private and what is in between' and week 3 on 'Trends and future institutional options'.
Participation was in the form of active contributions to the discussions, asking critical questions to fellow participants and to the coaches, suggesting good websites or co-operating with others in the completion of the assignments. It is important to remember that in the programmes of TNU and IRC, the participants are co-responsible for the content of the course. Hence, the participants take part in a collaborative learning experience in an online 'learning community' of professionals and experts. Every week participants had to do different assignments. The assignments aim foremost to stimulate discussion and exchange of experiences between the participants. In addition to the assignments, there was an extensive focus on online discussions and debate in the 'forum'.
The course focuses on:
- a current sector analysis including stakeholders' roles and interests
- consequences of increasing private sector participation in the water sector
- stakeholders' roles and interests
- experiences with various models of private sector participation world-wide
- the issue of regulation
- alternative approaches to reach the poor in peri-urban and rural areas
- recent institutional developments and future trends in the sector
- recent institutional, political and technical developments in the sector
The course offers:
- a stimulating learning environment including links to major sites in the sector
- access to a knowledge network where participants share their experience
- intensive discussions to deepen the subject and follow-up on weekly assignments
- one on one coaching between the participants and the academic call centre (ACC)
Course concept:
- the course is offered and moderated through the Internet
- participation takes place at own pace and intensity
- weekly 4-5 hours online presence to submit assignments and participate in discussions
- estimated workload: on average 10-12 hours per week
Target group:
- professionals involved with the planning, design, and/or implementation of private sector participation in the water industry
- politicians of relevant government bodies (at local, provincial and national level)
- NGOs and other stakeholders such as unions
- advanced students with a specific interest in the topic
Internet requirements:
- Internet browser version 4 (Explorer or Netscape) or higher.
- Basic internet skills (for those who would like to sharpen these skills a 'do it yourself' course on Internet skills can be attended free of charge prior to the course)
Course fee:
US $ 1250/ EUR . A discount is negotiable for participants from developing countries.
