• Participatory training methods draw on participants’ own experiences.
• Participatory methods work well with people who have difficulty reading and writing.

Participatory training involves learners actively in the process by drawing on their experience, encouraging teamwork, and using hands-on problem solving. These methods allow participants to identify and analyze workplace hazards and develop practical solutions, while promoting meaningful interaction between workers and instructors.

This approach is particularly effective for workers with limited literacy because it emphasizes learning through discussion and hands-on activities rather than reading. It also enables instructors to observe engagement and identify individuals who may need additional support.

Participatory training methods:

• Build on workers’ existing knowledge and experience;
• Emphasize learning by doing, not just listening; and
• Foster a comfortable, engaging learning environment.

Common participatory techniques include:

• Icebreakers
• Risk mapping
• Role-playing Games
• Small group exercises
• “Trigger” visuals
• Brainstorming
• Demonstrations and hands-on activities
• Participatory lectures