Overview

TASO is seeking to appoint an independent evaluator to run new a research project focused on better understanding the barriers higher education (HE) providers face in developing Type 3 evidence and the associated evaluation methods – including, quasi-experimental methods and randomised controlled trials (RCTs).

Scope

The project will be divided into two key workstreams:

●      Barriers to robust evaluation

●      Developing effective support for overcoming barriers

Workstream 1: Barriers to robust evaluation

The chosen evaluator will conduct research – using qualitative and survey based methods – with broad cross-section of stakeholders from HEPs to:

  • Map the most important barriers to (and incentives for) carrying out more rigorous evaluation, including RCTs and quasi-experimental designs.
  • Identify at which level of decision making these barriers occur.
  • Assess and discuss with stakeholders to what extent these barriers are perceived or actual.
  • Explore with stakeholders how those barriers could be overcome and produce a prioritised list with potential solutions that is validated by stakeholders.

Workstream 2: Developing effective support for overcoming barriers

The chosen evaluator will conduct research – using qualitative and survey based methods- with a broad cross-section of stakeholders from HEPs to:

  • Understand whether and how different types of stakeholders have engaged with our tools and support to date (what has and has not worked and for whom).
  • Understand the learning needs of our stakeholders, develop a simple competency framework of stakeholders types depending on their learning needs and map those to the support, resources and tools we currently provide or should provide in the future.
  • Understand the most effective modes to support learning needs, particularly online versus in-person, large events versus tailored training,and format of online resources.
  • Identify appetite for additional paid-for services from TASO, which would be above and beyond the standard capacity-building work, including format and level of needs based on the above competency framework.
  • Road-test potential solutions and ideas with stakeholders workshop or roundtable sessions or as well as gather their suggestions for improvements.

The project will run between September and December 2023.

How to apply

To find out more about the project and details on how to apply read the full invitation to tender document (ITT) below.
Access the full invitation to tender document (ITT)

The deadline for applications to take part in this project is 5pm on Friday 4 August 2023. If you have any questions you can get in touch with us over email via research@taso.org.uk.

Document accessibility: TASO is committed to making all documents accessible for all audiences. If you have any difficulty accessing the links or documents, or need these resources in another format, please email info@taso.org.uk.