2 - Introduction to the Humanitarian Principles

The course employs microlearning techniques, breaking down complex concepts into focused, manageable segments that allow learners to absorb and reflect on each principle individually. Through active learning approaches, including scenario-based questions and interactive activities, participants will explore how these principles shape decision-making and operations in humanitarian contexts. This hands-on approach ensures that learners not only understand theoretical frameworks but can also apply them to real-world situations.

Whether you are new to the humanitarian sector or seeking to deepen your understanding of humanitarian principles, this course will equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate the ethical and practical challenges of humanitarian work. Participants will learn how these fundamental principles work together to ensure effective, ethical, and principled humanitarian assistance to those in greatest need.

The course follows a microlearning approach, offering bite-sized lessons (15–20 minutes each) that make it easy to grasp complex human rights concepts. Interactive activities, case studies, and scenario-based exercises provide opportunities for active learning. There are no graded assessments—participants can engage, explore, and retry activities as often as needed to deepen their understanding.

There is one lesson to complete, which include:

Lesson 1: Introduction to the Humanitarian Principles

The completion time for this course is estimated at 30 minutes, comprising 15 minutes of learning resources, 15 minutes of microlearning content. The course requires the completion of one microlesson. the final exam, and the end of course surveys.

After completing the microlesson, you'll gain access to a final exam at the end of the course. This exam features a detailed scenario that integrates all the concepts learned.

Once you’ve passed the final exam, you can receive a badge from NextGenU.org and our course’s co-sponsoring organizations. We keep your personal information confidential, never sell any of your information, and only use anonymized data for research purposes. Also, we are happy to report your testing information and share your work with anyone (your school, employer, etc.) at your request.

Engaging with this Course: 

You can enroll in this course or  browse this course for free for personal enrichment; there are no requirements.

To obtain a badge, a learner must successfully complete:

• All the reading requirements
• All quizzes and pass with a 70% with unlimited attempts
• All activities
• The final exam
• The self and course evaluation forms

NextGenU.org is happy to provide your institution with

• A link to and description of the course training so that they can see all its components, including the cosponsoring universities and other professional organization cosponsors;
• Your grade on the final exam;
• Your work products (e.g., case study activities), and any other required or optional shared materials that you produce and authorize to share with them; 
• Your evaluations -- course and self-assessments;
• A copy of your badge, along with the co-sponsoring universities and other organizations listed.

Next Steps

• Take the short knowledge pre-test below. It allows us to assess various aspects of the course itself.
• Complete the registration form.
• Begin the course with Lesson 1:  Introduction to the Humanitarian Principles.
• In each lesson, read the description, complete all required readings and any required activity, and take the corresponding quizzes.

Disclaimer: This content is designed to enhance your study; we cannot guarantee that the successful completion of these materials will enable you to work in your place of residence as regulations vary by location. If you plan to practice using your new knowledge, to ensure safety and compliance with your local laws, you must successfully complete a program of study approved by the government and relevant local regulatory agencies in your place of practice.