Training
Our training program is designed to help volunteers identify and meet their learning needs before leaving for their placement – and while overseas.
CUSO-VSO’s thorough training ensures volunteers can be effective in a range of intercultural environments and work in a participatory way to make successful contributions to development.
Pre-departure course
CUSO-VSO expects volunteers to actively engage in their own learning. We support you through an online learning environment called the Volzone, which requires a minimum of 15 hours of self directed activity and once you are matched to a placement, we also require you to attend a face to face training course in Ottawa.
Our training program explores issues related to personal preparation, health and security, the role of values and behaviours in intercultural settings, the broader development context and ways that volunteers can involve their family, friends and communities in their overseas experience.
Our five day course introduces practical skills and attitudes volunteers will need to implement CUSO-VSO’s approach to development during their placements. Through an experiential learning approach that integrates action, theory, reflection and planning, volunteers design participatory tools and practice facilitation skills to work effectively with the multiple stakeholders in their placement.
In-country
Upon arrival in-country volunteers will be provided with in-country training. This training and learning session will focus on information specific to your country and region of placement. Topics can range from very practical (health, safety and security) to language training, cultural orientation and development issues.
