Our research will build on a growing literature on ‘low-tech’ platforms to support remote learning. We will conduct randomized controlled trials in Kenya and Sierra Leone, both of which have high mobile penetration rates and have made attempts to implement remote learning during the recent pandemic period.
In Kenya, our research will focus on optimisations to phone-based tutoring platforms and understanding the specific mechanisms that lead to learning gains seen in successful phone tutoring programs. In Sierra Leone we will study methods to boost engagement with educational radio and the potential benefits that radio engagement can have for student learning.