Self-Paced Open Mapping Learning Pathway for Youth Leadership and Community-Driven Development in LearnWorld
This self-paced learning program equips youth with practical skills in open mapping tools to strengthen their capacity to address local challenges through data. By offering modular, flexible training on a range of open mapping tools such as OpenStreetMap (OSM), iD Editor, JOSM, Tasking Manager, MapRoulette, StreetComplete, and KoboToolbox—this curriculum enables young people to become not just contributors, but local mapping leaders, driving change within their own communities.
The courses emphasizes experiential learning, community engagement, and leadership development. Beginning with an introduction to open mapping and the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT), learners explore the ecosystem of Open Mapping Hubs and understand how open mapping contributes to humanitarian response, sustainable development, and climate action. Structured in progressive modules, the curriculum takes learners from beginner-friendly tools like iD Editor and mobile mapping apps, to advanced techniques in field data collection, validation, and AI-assisted mapping.
At the heart of this initiative is the principle of Learning to create impact by taking on leadership roles within their communities, guiding locally-driven mapping efforts that address real challenges and reflect community priorities. Learners are encouraged to work with local communities to identify shared challenges such as access to healthcare, disaster preparedness, or transportation planning and to map these priorities using the tools introduced in the course. This ensures that data generated through mapping reflects real, lived experiences and supports effective local decision-making.
Project-based learning units guide youth to apply their new skills in mapping initiatives that respond directly to community needs. By learning to plan and manage field mapping campaigns, use offline tools in low-connectivity settings, and support collaborative workflows via Tasking Manager and MapRoulette, learners gain practical experience aligned with real-world humanitarian and development scenarios.
Modules on tools like Mapillary and Mapswipe also provide inclusive, low-barrier entry points for those who may not be able to engage in traditional editing but still want to contribute meaningfully to data improvement.
Throughout the pathway, youth are encouraged to take on peer-mentorship and training roles within their communities, ultimately becoming open mapping trainers. A dedicated unit on training facilitation and leadership development supports this goal. Learners are introduced to techniques for guiding local mapping sessions, supporting quality control, and mentoring new contributors. This leadership aspect not only reinforces technical skills but also fosters soft skills in communication, planning, and community engagement.
By the end of the courses, participants will have:
Gained practical proficiency in open mapping tools gain valuable experience for open mapping mapping skills and experience and leverage them in the development of their professional and civic lives.

Learned to plan, manage, and evaluate field data collection activities;

Understood how to align mapping initiatives with humanitarian, development, and climate goals;

Engaged with local communities to ensure that mapping reflects their lived realities;

Grown into local leaders capable of training others and sustaining community-based open mapping efforts.