Evidence synthesis and translation
Helping policymakers, practitioners and funders make evidence-based decisions to improve foundational learning
Improving children’s learning requires an understanding of what approaches have proven effective, why they are effective, and how they can be implemented successfully at scale. We synthesise, translate, and curate evidence on these questions.
We develop innovative approaches that unite the best evidence on improving learning with knowledge from implementers themselves, including the lessons they have learned.
Why this matters
The challenge
Improving foundational learning at scale requires more than just identifying ‘what works.’ Governments and practitioners need evidence on how to adopt and adapt evidence-based approaches to their contexts, and how to implement effective approaches at scale and through government systems.
The gap
Research studies are often written for academic audiences, published in gated journals, and typically do not include the implementation details needed to apply the findings in a new context or with a new group. Valuable lessons on how reforms succeed, or fail, at scale are
difficult to access, interpret, and apply in decision-making.
Our response
We synthesise research and implementers’ knowledge and experiences to generate evidence-based, actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, funders and researchers working to improve foundational learning at scale.
Evidence synthesis and translation framework
Our framework links research and implementation in a continuous cycle of learning. It combines formal evidence with insights into implementation to generate practical guidance for improving foundational learning at scale.
Featured evidence & resources
Deep-dives into key themes that are critical for improving foundational learning.
Core components of teaching at the right level
Evidence on adapting and implementing ‘teaching at the right level’ approaches to improve learning for all children.
Foundational literacy and numeracy modelling
Related resources
The three pillars of the What Works Hub for Global Education
Evidence translation
We are making the best existing evidence clear and available to governments and other implementers so they can use it effectively, through synthesising, curating and translating evidence on improving foundational learning.
Evidence use
We are supporting evidence generation and use by governments for policy design and implementation in a range of ways, including evidence labs embedded within governments, networks, and support for individuals and institutions to gather and use evidence.
Implementation science
By working alongside governments as they put in place reforms, we will generate evidence about the ingredients of successful implementation. This effort will catalyse a new focus on implementation science within education, concurrently having real-world impact.