Education Researcher (Foundational Literacy and Numeracy)

Purpose of Role

The Education Researcher will lead and implement qualitative research focused on early-grade literacy and numeracy, and large-scale system reform in South Africa. The role combines rigorous qualitative research, policy-relevant analysis, and implementation-focused case studies to support national and provincial education departments in improving teaching practice and learner outcomes at scale. The role also includes providing analytical and research support to key initiatives and partner organisations supported by the Binding Constraints Lab (BCL), including through evidence synthesis, desktop reviews, and the production of high-quality reports to inform advocacy, policy, and implementation efforts.

Objectives of Role

Research Design

Design and lead qualitative education research aligned to state-led reform goals.

Develop clear research questions, theories of change, and conceptual frameworks drawing on:

• Early-grade reading and mathematics research
• Curriculum theory (intended, implemented, attained curriculum)
• Teacher pedagogy and instructional practice

Align research design with departmental strategies (e.g. Provincial Reading Strategies, CAPS).

Evidence Synthesis and Desktop Reviews

Conduct comprehensive desktop reviews and targeted evidence syntheses of foundational learning interventions Synthesise qualitative and quantitative evidence to assess:

• Impact on teacher practice and learner outcomes
• Mechanisms of implementation success or failure
• Scalability and cost considerations

Produce background reports, policy briefs, and technical inputs for BCL-led and partner initiatives (e.g. 2030 Reading Panel, Right to Read Campaign)

Classroom Observation and Field Research

Develop and pilot research instruments including:

• Classroom observation instruments
• Interview and focus group guides for teachers and school leadership
• Learning and teaching support materials audit

Train and manage fieldworkers, ensuring high-quality data collection

Collect and analyse classroom-level data on: Teacher use of LTSM, pedagogical practices and instructional time, curriculum coverage and pacing.

Produce reports and presentations of the findings for the departments of education

Stakeholder Engagement

Conduct interviews and focus groups with:

• Teachers
• Heads of Department
• Subject Advisors and other relevant officials

Analyse teacher perceptions, motivation, and implementation challenges.

Work closely with provincial departments to ensure research relevance, access, and uptake.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Implementation Research

Contribute to monitoring and evaluation of large-scale literacy programmes, including:

• Teacher training
• School-based workshops
• Materials distribution and procurement systems

Document implementation processes and bureaucratic workflows to support system learning and handover.

Support the design of cost-effectiveness and fiscal feasibility analyses.

Action Research and Pilot Intervention Support

Support the design and delivery of small scale, school-based action research pilots to test targeted improvements in foundational literacy (e.g. effective use of graded readers; strengthening Grade 1 letter–sound instruction).

Co-develop intervention packages with teachers, Heads of Department, and Subject Advisors, including:

• Practical tools and routines
• Training and support materials grounded in classroom realities

Develop clear implementation and learning plans for pilots, including:

• Hypotheses and success measures
• Site selection and sampling criteria
• Timelines and monitoring tools aligned to existing departmental routines

Coordinate pilot logistics (permissions, scheduling, fieldwork, data collection protocols).

Support rapid learning cycles (plan–do–study–act), synthesising insights into practical recommendations for iteration and potential scale up.

Analysis, Writing, and Reporting

Produce high-quality research outputs, including:

• Technical research reports
• Policy briefs
• Internal learning documents
• Presentations for government and partner audiences

Translate complex findings into clear, actionable recommendations for policymakers and implementers.

Ensure research timelines and deliverables are met.

Experience and Qualifications

Master’s degree in:

• Education
• Economics of Education or
• Closely related field

3-5 Years relevant experience

Strong experience in qualitative education research; familiarity with mixed-methods, implementation research, and/or small-scale pilot evaluation is an advantage.

Demonstrated expertise in early-grade literacy and numeracy, curriculum, and pedagogy.

Proven ability to manage research projects from design to reporting

Competencies

• Advanced qualitative analysis and synthesis
• Strong analytical writing and reporting skills
• Research instrument design and piloting
• Fieldwork management and training
• Stakeholder engagement and collaboration
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple workstreams
• High attention to methodological rigour combined with practical policy relevance