What is Pathways?

Pathways is Toastmasters International’s current educational program. It helps you build skills in public speaking, communication, and leadership through a structured, flexible, self-paced learning system. You’ll choose a Path, complete projects, and apply what you learn in club meetings and beyond.

Step-by-Step: Getting Started With Pathways

1. Log in to Toastmasters International

• Go to www.toastmasters.org

• Click “Login” at the top right

• Use your member credentials to log in. If you’re new, create an account with your member ID (you’ll receive it via email after joining)

2. Access Pathways

• After logging in, point your mouse at your name at the top

• Click “My Home”

• Click “Go to Base Camp.”

  • If you’re in multiple clubs, select the club you’re working with

• Click “Log in as a Member.”

3. Choose Your Path

If you haven’t chosen a Path yet:

• Click “Educational Programs.”

• Click the Base Camp “Assess” button.

• Take the Pathways Assessment – it suggests Paths based on your goals and interests.

• Review the recommended Paths or browse all available ones

• Choose your first Path (the first Path is included in your membership)

Popular Paths Include:

• Presentation Mastery – for public speaking focus

• Dynamic Leadership – for leadership and conflict resolution

• Effective Coaching – for mentoring and motivating others

4. Explore Base Camp

Base Camp is your online learning headquarters. On the homepage, you’ll find:

• My Education Transcript – access your Path and projects

• Tutorials and Resources – quick guides, how-tos, and videos

• Speech Evaluations – printable and fillable evaluation forms

Navigating Your Path

Each Path has 5 Levels, with 2–3 projects per level. You must complete each level in order.

Level Overview:

1. Level 1: Mastering Fundamentals

   • Ice Breaker (your first speech!)

   • Evaluation and Feedback

   • Researching and Presenting

2. Level 2: Learning Your Style

3. Level 3: Increasing Knowledge (includes an elective)

4. Level 4: Building Skills (includes an elective)

5. Level 5: Demonstrating Expertise (includes a capstone project)

Completing Projects:

• Read the project materials

• Prepare and give a speech (usually at a club meeting)

• Get evaluated by another member

• Reflect and complete the online self-assessment to mark the project as complete

Tips for Success

• Schedule speeches early – speak with your VP of Education to plan your speech dates

• Download evaluation forms in advance – give them to your evaluator before your speech

• Use a mentor – ask a seasoned Toastmaster for help navigating Pathways

• Track your progress – check off each project in Base Camp after completing it

• Celebrate milestones – each Level and Path completed is an achievement!

Common Questions

Can I switch Paths?

Yes, but only after you’ve completed your first Path or if you purchase an additional Path ($20 USD).

What if I prefer printed materials?

You can purchase a printed Path, but most members use the online version for flexibility and interactivity.

Do I need internet access at all times?

You’ll need access to complete projects, but you can download PDFs and speech outlines to work offline.

Final Advice

Be patient — it’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first. Pathways is a powerful tool designed to help you grow as a communicator and leader. Take it one project at a time, ask questions, and participate actively in your club.

You’ve got this!