Student expressing she feels comfortable and happy at school

The Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), with support from Australia through the Basic Education Quality and Access in the Lao PDR (BEQUAL) programme, has commenced the third year of research under the Inclusive Teaching and Learning Study to identify practices that strengthen student belonging, engagement, and learning.

Enumerators received a 5-day training on the tools for the qualitative data collection

Launched in 2024, the three-year longitudinal study spans 30 target districts across seven provinces — Phongsaly Province, Luang Namtha Province, Bokeo Province, Houaphanh Province, Xiangkhouang Province, Khammouane Province and Savannakhet Province. The research combines annual qualitative case studies in 21 schools with Early Grade Language Assessments (EGLA) conducted in 120 schools. It tracks changes in classroom practices, school culture and physical environments, parental and community engagement, and student learning outcomes.

Emojis are used to help students express their feelings

Mr. Phetmany Sylatmena, Deputy Director General of the Department of Teacher Education, said the department guided school selection and field research design to ensure comparable longitudinal evidence. “This study follows students’ progress each year as their teachers participate in ongoing professional development. It will help us determine which teaching strategies effectively engage all learners, especially those facing language barriers, irregular attendance, or disability. Year three findings will highlight practical approaches that enable every child to participate, feel a sense of belonging, and learn,” he said.

Enumerators reviewing the icebreakers the teachers could use to get students more engaged

Mr. Michael Currie, First Secretary at the Australian Embassy, noted that Australia is proud to partner with MoES on the study. He described the third year as a critical stage for consolidating evidence on how students’ attitudes and behaviours have evolved since year one, and how these shifts influence belonging and learning outcomes.

The team of enumerators from MoES and TTC

Throughout February and March, 21 enumerators from MoES and Teacher Training Colleges, supported by 33 staff from Provincial and District Education and Sports authorities, will collect qualitative data in primary schools. This will be followed by EGLA testing in 120 schools, including the original cohort of Grade 3 students and a new group of Grade 1 students for comparison.

Findings from the study will inform teacher professional development, school-level strategies, and policy improvements aimed at ensuring inclusive, high-quality learning for all children.

The study covers 30 remote target districts across 7 provinces

BEQUAL is a program led by the Lao Government with support from the Australian Government and the United States Government. The program focuses on enhancing educational outcomes for the nation's youth, especially the vulnerable and disadvantaged. BEQUAL is focused on ensuring gender equality and promoting inclusive education across all activities.

KPL