Scaffolded project work as staff development: Critical reflections on two capacity building programs in India

This article reflects on the strengths and limitations of two capacity building programs framed around the analysis, design, implementation and evaluation phases of project work. It is based on experiences from two tailor-made programs, both of which aimed to strengthen institutional and individual capacities for designing and delivering primary education in India. The article describes the rationale behind both programs and their basic structures. After presenting findings on participant reactions; participant learning; organizational support and change; and participant use of knowledge and skills, the main issues and dilemmas are discussed.