20-12
Using the INDEX or CONTENTS to
plan classes or for independent study
The INDEX (yellow pages) is a good source of
ideas for independent or group study because it
lists all the pages that have information about a
specific subject. For example:
If health workers want to refresh their knowledge
about how to examine someone:
These pages listed in
the INDEX can give you
ideas for what to teach.
If mothers have already learned the importance of
giving Rehydration Drink to children with diarrhea.
and want to learn about other uses for it:
If health workers need to review the possible
changes in appearance of the urine, and what
problems these represent:
The list of CONTENTS at the beginning of the book can also be useful for
planning classes or study. For example, if a group of concerned persons in the
community wants to learn about the special problems of old people, the list of
CONTENTS may help them plan what to study.
In several health programs we know, village health workers meet every month
or so to review a chapter of WTND, or part of a chapter, in order to continue
learning. In other programs, health workers and teachers meet regularly with
parents, school children, or mothers’ clubs to read and discuss the book, chapter
by chapter.
There are many ways people can use a book like Where There Is No Doctor.
But to use it fully and well takes a lot of practice. Practice guided by friendly
persons who have experience in using reference books is especially helpful.