Strengths and weaknesses of the South-South Learning Exchange: a qualitative analysis of experts’ perspectives

Gates Open Research

article

Isotta Triulzi¹  Rita Kabra²  Komal Preet Allagh²  James Kiarie² 

[1] Institute of Management;Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization

关键词: learning exchange;    South-South learning exchange;    peer-to-peer;    South-South cooperation;    knowledge exchange;   

DOI  :  10.12688/gatesopenres.14699.1

学科分类：电子与电气工程

来源: American Journal Of Pharmtech Research

【 摘 要 】

Background: South-South learning exchange (SSLE) refers to an interactive learning process where peers exchange knowledge and experience to work towards a beneficial change. Despite organizations having recently increased the opportunity to run SSLEs, the SSLE support mechanisms and processes are not well documented in the scientific literature. This study explored experts’ perspective on SSLEs, strengths, weaknesses and mechanisms leading to outcomes.    Methods:  We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews on experience of participants and organizers of SSLEs. Data were collected between 1st September 2021 to 26th November 2021. All data were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed. In the analysis, we adopted an inductive approach derived from thematic analysis.    Results:  Sixteen experts who have participated in or facilitated one or more SSLE were interviewed. Experts’ accounts demonstrated an appreciation of participants’ empowerment, positive peer-to-peer “mind change” and convincing and powerful hands-on learning of this approach as strengths in the successful implementation of the SSLE. Being resource heavy, participant reluctance and absence of a validated methodology emerged as main weaknesses of the South-South learning approach, which could impair the effectiveness of this scheme.     Conclusions:  The SSLE is a promising approach to exchange knowledge and experience to work toward a desired change. This study suggested that this approach could gain robustness and credibility adopting a validated and systematic methodology. Furthermore, national and international funds improve availability of and accessibility to learning on the SSLE.

【 授权许可】

CC BY