Learning to complete natural resource assessments requires hands-on training. This paper illustrates eight elements of successful international workshops illustrated by data and experiences from a workshop in Inner Mongolia, China: translation, integration of a site potential-based land classification system, integration of quantitative data, participant diversity, participant commitment to training, discussion of applications, connection to decision makers, and proximity of field and classroom locations. Success in transferring knowledge is seen via consistent, positive courseevaluations by participants, but ultimate success of these types of workshops will be reflected in theparticipants use of the information in future decision making.