Explore the SLC curriculum
The Scale-up Learning Center (SLC) provides practical, evidence-based guidance on how to scale up effective health and development interventions—and how to translate that knowledge into action. Designed for professionals seeking to strengthen their scaling expertise, the curriculum combines ExpandNet’s systematic approach with differentiated learning tracks that support both individual and team-based application.
The SLC curriculum includes five modules that explore ExpandNet’s history and systematic approach to scaling. Each module integrates videos, applied exercises, transcripts, slide decks, talk narratives for future use, recommended readings, and real-world case experiences from diverse settings—designed to deepen understanding and strengthen practical application.
Introductory Module: An overview of ExpandNet's history and approach
This module explores how ExpandNet’s systematic scaling approach emerged and introduces the core concepts and principles that underpin effective scale-up. Specifically, the module:
- Highlights ExpandNet’s contributions to the science and practice of scaling up
- Explains the benefits of adopting a scaling-up mindset in global health and development work.
- Articulates ExpandNet’s definition of scaling up and the importance of a systematic approach.
- Presents a real-world country case example drawn from practical scaling experience
- Provides guidance on accessing scale-up resources from ExpandNet and other leaders
Introduction
An overview of ExpandNet's approach to scale up
Module 1: Brief introduction to the scaling framework
This module introduces the ExpandNet/WHO framework and its core components, building on the conceptual foundation established in the introductory module. The detailed application of the framework is explored in greater detail in Module III on scaling-up strategy development. Specifically, the module:
- Explains why a structured framework is essential for effective scaling.
- Introduces the ExpandNet/WHO scaling-up framework and guidance.
- Defines the framework’s five elements and five strategic choice areas, with illustrative examples.
Framework
An introduction to the ExpandNet/WHO framework
Module 2: Beginning with the end in mind
This module helps learners design and implement pilot and demonstration projects with future scale in mind. Drawing on ExpandNet/WHO’s guidance, it strengthens the potential for sustainable and successful scale-up.
Specifically, the module:
- Explains the concept of “beginning with the end in mind” and its importance for future sustainability and scale-up.
- Identifies 12 recommendations for designing more sustainable and scalable intervention packages and demonstrates how they have been used to achieve stronger results.
- Provides a checklist to assess scaling potential and identify areas requiring further action.
Phase I
Beginning with the end in mind
Module 3: Scaling up strategy development
This module supports learners in applying the ExpandNet/WHO framework to develop a scaling-up strategy using a systems perspective. Specifically, the module:
- Guides learners in developing a strategy by analyzing the framework’s five elements and five strategic choice areas.
- Explores the Nine-step process for developing a scaling-up strategy through applied exercises.
- Demonstrates how teams can use the guidance and worksheets to facilitate scale-up planning workshops.
- Shares global applications of the Nine-step approach and key lessons learned.
Phase II
Scaling up strategy development
Module 4: Managing the scaling-up process
This module focuses on adaptive management as a foundation for effective and responsive scaling. It examines how teams can manage scale-up over time while responding to evolving opportunities, learnings, and constraints. Specifically, the module:
- Outlines five key pillars in managing the scaling-up process and why they are critical to success.
- Explores how systems thinking and adaptive management can help teams respond to challenges and opportunities as scale-up proceeds.
- Describes how monitoring and evaluation can support learning, inform decisions, and guide adjustments during scale-up.
- Introduces the Implementation Mapping Tool and related resources for monitoring and adapting scale-up efforts.
Phase III
Managing the scaling-up process