From conception to execution: Creating a Central American network for research and training in early grade reading

• In Event: Developing local research networks: a profile from the Central American early grade reading network

Proposal

The purpose of RedLEI is to continue the efforts of the LAC Reads Capacity Program (PCLR) to contribute to the production and promotion of the use of research, as a basis for influencing public policies that improve the learning of early grade reading (EGR) in the region. In January 2018 the RedLEI technical team was formed with its headquarters in Guatemala City at the Universidad del Valle de Guatemala (UVG). In May of that year, the network was formally established with the founding organizations joining UVG including four other Central American universities and a regional Commission of Education and Culture. Initially funded with support and technical assistance from USAID, the long-term goal is for RedLEI and its technical direction to be sustained solely through the network’s member organizations. This paper will describe the RedLEI’s preliminary activities of incorporation as well as its strategy towards sustainable implementation. Additionally, this paper will present the five strategic results of RedLEI and the network’s progress toward fulfilling its mission of improving the quality and dissemination of localized research for improved policy planning. The discussion and lessons learned will be informative for those interested in starting a similar research network in other geographic regions of need.

Author

• Paola Alejandra Andrade, Red para la Lectoescritura Inicial de Centroamérica y el Caribe -RedLEI-