Teacher-Centered Interventions to Improve the Quality of Catch Up Implementation in Zambia

This report presents findings from a collaborative research initiative led by Busara, Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) Africa, and VVOB, conducted between 2022 and 2024 in partnership with the Ministry of Education in Zambia. The study explores how teacher-focused approaches can improve the quality of Catch Up lesson delivery, part of Zambia’s nationwide differentiated learning programme based on the Teaching at the Right Level method.

Using behavioural science and mixed-methods research, the study tested the effect of teacher feedback, recognition, and access to resources on lesson quality across schools in Lusaka, Eastern, and Southern provinces. Results show that receiving on-demand feedback encouraged teachers to reflect on their performance and adjust practices, leading to more accurate student grouping and lesson facilitation. The report recommends embedding feedback and mentoring mechanisms in teacher support systems and strengthening professional learning structures to ensure consistent Catch Up delivery across provinces.