Pratham's TaRL approach recognized as a "Great Buy" in new report

The Global Education Evidence Advisory Panel (GEEAP) recently launched the 2023 Smart Buys: Cost-effective Approaches to Improve Global Learning Levels report.

The report serves as a comprehensive guide for governments and stakeholders in low- and middle-income countries. It offers valuable insights into cost-effective practices in education which have consistently demonstrated improved learning outcomes when implemented on a large scale. In the report, GEEAP categorized various education policies and programs into different groups, ranging from “Great Buys” to “Bad Buys.” Among the top recommendations in the “Great Buys” category is Pratham’s Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) approach, which is noted as being a highly effective, frugal and evidence-based solution.

TaRL recognizes that children can fall behind and struggle to keep up with their grade-level curriculum. Instructors conduct one-on-one assessments, which determine each student’s current learning level, and tailor their learning assignments and instructions accordingly. This personalized approach to learning has proven to be an effective way to accelerate learning and help children catch up to their peers. TaRL has successfully reached millions of children, teachers, and communities worldwide.

At the 2023 Education World Forum in London, Pratham Education Foundation CEO, Rukmini Banerji, participated in the release panel of the report and emphasized, “These are recommendations from studies from all over the world. There is evidence on ways that are cost effective to help children learn well.” Pandemic-related school closures have led to varied learning levels among students, and this report highlights TaRL as a clear solution to bridge these learning gaps.

GEEAP is convened by the World Bank, FCDO, UNICEF, and USAID. It aims to provide policymakers with a user-friendly summary of the best and most up-to-date evidence on cost-effective interventions at scale. On Wednesday, June 21, 2023 a panel of education experts – including Rukmini Banerji – will delve into the report’s latest findings, followed by a discussion with high-level education ministry representatives from several countries. Click here to attend the virtual discussion from 8:00-9:30 a.m. ET.