A framework for applying education system diagnostics to programs

• In Event: System Diagnostics: A Practical Approach for Bringing Local Voices into Program Design

Proposal

Development researchers and practitioners increasingly recognize that achieving sustained improvement in education outcomes depends on the contributions of multiple and interconnected local actors. While there has been a lot of talk about systems thinking in education reform, there has been less examples of ways to apply these concepts in practice. This presentation will explore a simple and practical framework for understanding education systems. Rooted in USAID’s Local Systems Framework, the presentation will explore how an understanding of rules, resources, roles, relationships, and results (5Rs) can shed light on what is actually going on in each context. Collectively these 5Rs can serve as a lens for assessing local education systems and a guide for identifying and monitoring interventions designed to strengthen them. This presentation will also draw the connection of how a thorough diagnostic utilizing the lens of 5Rs can help to situate education governance, accountability, and protest as key contributors to achieving learning outcomes.

Research to be highlighted:
The 5Rs Framework in the Program Cycle
USAID Local Systems Framework

Author

• Andrew Meaux, U.S. Agency for International Development Dexis Professional Services