The Active Learning Network for Accountability and Performance in Humanitarian Action defines learning as the capacity for continuous, collective, interactive and inquisitive review by knowledgeable and trained staff. Organisations implementing WASH programmes must therefore create this capacity by establishing a learning strategy that includes HP.

Collective learning in the sector is derived from collective experience. This is an implicit basis of Sphere, where standards, indicators and key actions are derived from learning in the humanitarian WASH sector. WASH coordination mechanisms are also important contributors to the learning process at the national and global level, as are research initiatives that carry out research and learning for the humanitarian sector.

Learning processes can be difficult to establish in humanitarian contexts, particularly during the acute response phase. However, it may be possible to gain knowledge through Monitoring M.2 and Evaluation M.3, but with additional or more focused analyses. In addition, specific Research M.7 can be undertaken to complement the monitoring and evaluation findings. The main goal is to learn what works or does not work and why. Being able to acknowledge mistakes and failures can contribute significantly to learning and building trust. For example, identifying why the affected population has not successfully adopted handwashing with soap at critical times is essential learning with which to adapt the HP programme. The assumption however that learning is universal and can be applied in the same way in every community is a mistake, as learning must be contextualised.

Knowledge Management M.8 is a crucial element of learning and includes the documentation, centralisation, comparison, synthesis and sharing of information and guidance. There are various ways of disseminating knowledge and experience - not just through the written word but also through interaction such as personal communication, meetings, videos or workshops.

Learning within the humanitarian sector is difficult without individual learning by practitioners. Investment in continuously developing the HP capacity of WASH professionals at every level is essential. Organisations need to develop learning strategies and provide adequate resources for the learning and knowledge needs of all staff.