Compendiums: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Compendiums?

The Compendiums aim to curate and share evidence-informed, scalable and cost-effective solutions that advance foundational learning, especially in literacy and numeracy. They serve as a resource for policymakers, implementers and funders seeking practical insights into what works in education.

How will submissions be used, and what impact are you hoping they will achieve?

Submissions selected for the Compendiums will be featured on the What Works Hub for Global Education website and may be highlighted in policy briefs, global events or learning forums. The goal is to elevate actionable insights and help inform decision-making at scale.

How do I submit my application?

Please visit the main Compendiums page and follow the instructions provided.

What is the expected format of the submission?

We welcome a variety of formats – briefs, blog posts, working papers, evaluation summaries or case studies. The focus should be on clarity, relevance and insight into foundational learning improvements.

Is there a recommended length for submission?

There is no fixed length; the length should suit the format and content. A concise, well-structured brief can be just as impactful as a longer paper.

Are there deadlines for submission, or is it rolling?

Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis, with no current deadline. However, we encourage early submission to be considered for upcoming dissemination opportunities.

Can I submit a concept or outline, or do I need a full draft?

Full drafts are preferred. If you’re still developing your piece, you may submit a detailed abstract or concept note for initial feedback.

Can I submit more than one entry?

Yes. Multiple submissions are welcome, as long as each addresses a distinct intervention, insight, or context.

What types of content are appropriate for submission?

Submissions should present practical, evidence-informed insights into improving foundational learning. This may include implementation experiences, research findings or policy recommendations – especially those linked to scale, cost-efficiency or government integration.

Should submissions include data?

Submissions should be grounded in data, evaluation or real-world implementation experience. This could include process data, cost information, routine monitoring or structured reflections from implementers. We welcome both quantitative and qualitative insights. The key is that lessons are evidence-informed and relevant to achieving impact at scale.

Are you looking for implementation experiences, evaluation findings or something else?

We are especially interested in insights that illuminate how programmes were delivered, adapted or scaled – particularly in government systems or low-resource contexts. Submissions may draw from research or evaluations, but they do not need to report impact results alone. Standalone impact evaluations are not a priority unless they offer strong operational learning related to delivery, cost-effectiveness or institutional integration.

Who is eligible to submit a solution?

Anyone working in education – whether NGOs, researchers, implementers, governments, multilaterals or other partners – is welcome to submit. We encourage contributions from teams based in or working with low- and middle-income countries.

Can I propose a topic or should I already have a full draft?

You can propose a topic or idea through an abstract or outline. If your concept aligns with the Compendiums’ goals, we may invite a full submission.

Can the What Works Hub for Global Education provide feedback on a topic before I draft it?

Yes. We’re happy to offer initial feedback on abstracts or ideas to help determine fit before you develop a full draft.

How will submissions be reviewed or assessed?

Submissions will be reviewed for their relevance and clarity. Two reviewers will read each application and consider the following guiding questions:

• Is the submission clearly focused on improving foundational learning outcomes in education?
• Does the submission offer insights into effective government embeddedness or demonstrate high-quality implementation fidelity at low cost?
• Are the key lessons or takeaways clearly articulated and easy to understand?
• Are the insights supported by data, evaluation or implementation experience?
• Will the submission be useful and accessible to policymakers, implementers and other stakeholders?

We aim to provide feedback within approximately two weeks of receiving your submission.