COLME works by finding technology-based solutions to needs in the Commonwealth community in collaboration with in-country agencies. COLME's Open and Distance Learning (ODL) approach has at its centre local collaboration. In-country stakeholders, facilitated by COL, submit ideas for projects that involve developing technologically viable, cost-effective, sustainable models for communicating information and building capacity. This strategy is designed to establish a sense of ownership in the process among in-country stakeholders - rather than simply becoming an initiative that is exclusively developed by COL.

When evaluating project ideas, COLME seeks to assess whether the need is valid, resources are available, the project is replicable in other countries or regions, and the project aligns with COL and funders' mandates. The COLME process begins with a needs analysis phase. Investigation is completed through on-site analysis, workshops, roundtables, meetings, and recommendations from reports. Phase two consists in implementation of the project in the field. This phase focusses on initial training with the system (computing, virtual conferencing, radio, video, or the like) and ensuring that roles and responsibilities are clearly defined by all parties. This process may include content development training, technology installations and training, a system to train the trainers for model replication within the country/region, and a structure to ensure that an evaluation will take place in the post-implementation phase.

To cite a few examples of specific COLME projects, first, rural extension officers in Dominica, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica have been taught how to use a digital videocamera and have learned audio/video production skills to demonstrate new farming techniques and address local issues (such as fostering agribusiness opportunities and environmental sustainability). The officers then learn how to edit the videos; this editing system is designed for ease of use by the novice yet is appropriate for professional-level broadcasters. The tapes then make the rounds with the extension officers, or are broadcast nationally. Supported by the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), this initiative grew out of a feasibility study conducted by COL in Jamaica that revealed that extension workers had access to training but that the system of disseminating information about this training to farmers was not effective or efficient. The choice of video, rather than radio, also reflected a process of research and strategising.

Second, several COLME projects in Africa are using portable community radio services to support the goal of fostering local participation, training, and education in less advantaged communities, often in remote locations. Local personnel are trained in basic broadcast techniques and administration; broadcasts use the local language and the programming emphasises community interests and needs. For example, Radio Apac is a community radio service in northern Uganda that broadcasts in the Luo language from a radio station that fits in a suitcase. The package has earphones, a microphone, a mixer, two tape players and recorders, two CD players and a transmitter, as well as a hook-up to commercial FM networks and to satellite feeds for off-air programming. It broadcasts up to 50 km, runs on a car battery, and can be modified for solar power. The components are available worldwide and are relatively inexpensive (approximately US$3500).

Technology, Agriculture, Environment, Health, Education.

COL is an intergovernmental organisation created by the Heads of Government of the Commonwealth, a voluntary association of 54 developing and developed nations, including Canada, which have historic ties to Great Britain.

Analysts point out that agricultural extension is squeezed by decentralisation policies, reduced public funding, and privatisation of government services. However, agricultural policy makers hope that information and communication technologies (ICTs) will enable new directions in providing farmers with the information they need. According to COLME, initiatives like the Caribbean video projects will only be sustainable if the region's agriculture ministries allow the role of the rural extension officer to change. Under the current system, organisers say, trained field extension officers who are promoted are often transferred from their area of expertise and given administrative duties, creating a large knowledge gap at the field level. They urge that governments need continued assistance in finding effective strategies that enable greater numbers of farmers to receive relevant information.