Can You Use the Same Advanced Manual More Than Once in Toastmasters?

One of the most frequently asked questions in the Toastmasters community is whether you can use the same advanced manual more than once. The answer is nuanced and depends on several factors, including the legacy system and the current Pathways system.

No Restrictions with the Legacy System

Under the legacy system, there was no restriction on using the same advanced manual multiple times. Many members have taken this approach, repeating projects and even earning credits twice. After paying for the manual, using it repeatedly made financial sense. However, it's important to understand that this system has since been replaced by the Pathways system, which has its own set of rules and guidelines.

The Rules of the Old Track

Within the context of the legacy education track, you could only receive credit for an advanced manual once within a single Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) Track. This means that while you could technically repeat the projects, doing so would not result in additional recognition or credits unless you were pursuing a second DTM track.

According to the rules, the legacy track is being phased out in many countries and will eventually disappear globally, being replaced by Toastmasters International's Pathways learning experience. In the Pathways system, there are no restrictions on repeating projects or manuals for personal development and learning purposes. Thus, repeating the same projects would primarily serve as a method to reinforce your understanding and skills.

Self-Paced Learning Platform

Toastmasters is inherently a self-paced learning platform. Many members, like JB, have opted to complete the same advanced manual twice or more, such as obtaining both Competent Leadership (CL) and Competent Communicator (CC) credits. This approach often leads to a deeper understanding of the material and personal growth.

For instance, JB shares that he completed two CL certifications and is just a few speeches away from completing his second CC. This was a self-imposed challenge, illustrating how individuals can reap multiple benefits from a single manual. Despite having paid for the manual once, the value of learning and personal development remains significant.

Ethical Considerations and Payment

From an ethical standpoint, some may argue that you have already paid for the manual once, so using it again feels like a redundant cost. Additionally, there is a concern about copying pages that are written about each speech. However, these ethical considerations vary among individual members, and some feel that the learning experience is a valid reason to repeat the manual.

In conclusion, while you can technically use the same advanced manual more than once in the current Toastmasters system, whether you choose to do so is a personal decision. The primary factors to consider are the purpose of repeating the manual (for learning, personal growth, or recognition), the availability of the legacy system in your region, and your own ethical stance. The Toastmasters community continues to evolve, offering members various opportunities to learn and grow.