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ConnectEd is a targeted phone-based tutoring program
shown to significantly improve basic numeracy and literacy skills. The program uses simple SMS messages and short one-on-one phone tutorials to support distance learning.

The Challenge
The aftermath of COVID-19 has led to a renewed global interest in cost-effective solutions for more resilient education systems. Learning loss resulting from the pandemic has made clear that school closures of any length risk exacerbating an ongoing learning crisis. Millions of children continue to experience disruptions to learning every year. The most recent Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report found an estimated 250 million children to have been forced out of school this year, a figure roughly equivalent to pre-pandemic levels (UNESCO, 2023). Traditional distance learning solutions require internet connectivity and high tech devices, which are not accessible for many of those affected by these challenges.

The Solution
We developed a targeted, accessible, cost-effective program that provides one-on-one math instruction to children over basic mobile phones. The program has a specific model: the pedagogy – connecting students with highly targeted instruction focused on foundational skills – is as essential as the platform – a mobile phone which can enable connecting with children wherever they are and at scale. Each tutoring session usually lasts 20-40 minutes and focuses on basic mathematics operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division), tailored to a child’s learning needs. Outside of the sessions, children receive math problems via text message to encourage further practice. Caregivers are encouraged to participate in the lessons either by observation or by leading some of the tutoring, coached by the tutor. With just three 40-minute sessions, approximately 60% of children learn one or more basic mathematics operations.

Scaling ConnectEd
ConnectEd has been rigorously tested across six randomized trials, representing one of the quickest and largest-scale studies in education. The program is currently being delivered in over ten countries and counting. NGOs, governments, multi-laterals, and researchers have partnered with us to test and adapt the program in their contexts, including in Education in Emergency (EiE) settings where regular classes are disrupted
The results

65%
average increase
in the percent of
students that
learn division
$100 Cost to deliver up to 4 years of high quality schooling
ConnectEd improves a
child’s math by 0.97
grade levels

