What is PLA?

Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) is an action learning approach that appeals to first hand knowledge and experience. It embraces learning by doing rather than by being told/ shown. PLA techniques actively engage people in development initiatives by means of participatory techniques such as mapping, drawing, timelines, ranking, and group discussions.

When to use PLA?

PLA techniques are based on the drive to engage first hand stakeholders PLA techniques typically are applied in cyclic patterns, matching the stages commonly passed through in development projects/ programmes: needs analysis, action planning, implementation, and M&E. PLA techniques typically are applied in cyclic patterns, matching the stages commonly passed through in development projects/ programmes: needs analysis, action planning, implementation, and M&E.