IID has successfully wrapped up the final data collection phase of the ELANA (Early Language and Literacy and Numeracy Assessment) initiative, marking a step forward in evaluating early childhood education in Bangladesh. This final data collection took place throughout July 2024. It followed three key field trials: Field Trial 1 (FT-1) in 2021, where 600 children from 5 villages were assessed; Field Trial 2 (FT-2) in 2022, which involved 1,200 children from 5 upazilas; and Field Trial 3 (FT-3) in 2023, covering 300 children from 15 villages, all in Gaibandha district. In this final phase, our dedicated team of 60 volunteers reached 3,600 households across 60 villages in Jashore, Jhenaidah, and Magura, carefully mapping and selecting households to ensure a representative sample. They assessed the linguistic and numeracy skills of 3,663 children aged 4–10 using the tablet-based ELANA app.
This final phase of data collection was conducted in collaboration with the Rural Reconstruction Foundation (RRF), our local partner, who played a crucial role in facilitating the fieldwork and engaging with the community. Before the data collection commenced, IID organized a comprehensive 3-day training for volunteers to ensure they were well-prepared to conduct the assessments accurately and efficiently.
The ELANA initiative aims to improve the assessment of foundational learning in the Global South. Partnered with the PAL Network members across 12 countries in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, ELANA seeks to evaluate and enhance early learning outcomes for children aged 4-10 years. The project is funded by the KIX initiative of the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), and the Hewlett Foundation, and builds on the Citizen Led Assessments (CLAs) movement and the PAL Network’s International Common Assessment of Numeracy (ICAN).
ELANA’s innovative assessment tool evaluates key early learning competencies in language, literacy, and numeracy. It includes a Multi-Stage Adaptive Testing (MSAT) design that tailors the assessment to each child’s ability level, providing a precise and efficient evaluation. The tool, implemented in nine languages, is designed to be culturally relevant and accessible, reflecting the diverse educational contexts of the participating countries.
As the final data collection phase has been concluded, IID and its partners are hopeful that ELANA will pave the way for new insights into early childhood education. This comprehensive data will support evidence-based interventions and help improve educational outcomes for young children. We look forward to the continued impact of ELANA as part of a global network dedicated to enhancing early education.
