Our course design process

The development of our courses comprises an initial scoping phase to assess the training needs of the target learners alongside national or regional capacity building priorities. The available resources are mapped, which helps decide the best modality for course delivery.

Virtual Learning Centers (VLCs) follow a collaborative approach to course creation. Subject matter experts and instructional designers work closely together from the beginning to the end of the development process to ensure that the final product meets subject matter experts’ expectations and provides a pedagogically effective learning experience. Once developed, our courses may be adapted to suit different regions and translated into different languages. This enables us to reach a wide audience through the input of regional field experts. 

Most of the VLC courses are run as a tailored tutored course for specific regions. This enables us to facilitate an approach that includes online live interaction with trainers and experts, self-study modules, surveys, assignments, additional resources and discussion forums. Please see our global course listings page and regional VLC course page for more information. 


Delivering our courses in this way has a number of benefits:

A customized way of learning: trainees are allowed to learn at their own pace and in their own time. Tutors and teachers can provide guidance from anywhere and at any time and their class is brought to life through the VLC platform.


  Bridges the distance: virtual learning helps trainees achieve their learning objectives and foster the creation of communities, peer groups and collaborative teamwork, which are essential for advancing One Health. 


 Cost-effectiveness: virtual learning only requires access to the internet and a device which can be a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.


 A wider reach: the VLCs can reach a larger and more disparate audience when compared to face to face training approaches.


 Reduce environmental footprint: virtual learning does not require taking planes or other means of transport for trainees and trainers to meet at a physical venue.


 Fast, responsive training in the case of emergency or outbreak: our courses can be easily adapted into different formats to meet varying needs.


Learner testimonials 

The trainers have transformed virtual learning into real learning with the very best of their knowledge.

A very engaging course with simplified delivery yet very profound knowledge and professional insight.”

I thought it was one of the best online courses I have done.

Participants in the Avian Influenza Pilot Course (2022)

Last modified: Tuesday, 12 July 2022, 8:28 PM