Implementation of evidence-based practices in schools
Evidence-based teaching practices provide a strong foundation for improving learning, but for them to be truly effective, they need to be successfully implemented.
Effective implementation is
- a deliberate and structured process for embedding evidence-based teaching practices in schools
- translating key ideas from implementation research into everyday school practices
- adapted to each school’s unique context
- guided by 4 key components of:
- working in stages
- addressing enablers and barriers
- using core implementation strategies, and
- monitoring implementation outcomes.
- A process that requires thoughtful planning, collaboration and reflection
Effective implementation isn't
- A one-off event or quick fix.
- A prescriptive checklist or ‘tick box’ approach that works the same way everywhere.
- Implementing teaching practices without considering whether they’re based on strong evidence.
- Focusing only on student outcomes without monitoring the implementation process itself.
- Adding unnecessary burden on staff. Effective implementation considers what’s useful and useable in each school.
Why it works
- Greater impact: Well-implemented evidence-based practices produce stronger student outcomes.
- Greater reach: The more consistently and effectively a practice is used across a school, the more students will benefit.
- Context sensitivity: Tailoring implementation to your specific setting is more effective than applying generic approaches.
In practice
A school in Cairns forms an implementation team – including the assistant principal, literacy coach and 3 classroom teachers – to embed explicit teaching of vocabulary. With input from staff, the team develops an implementation plan and identifies key enablers and barriers. Staff take part in professional learning cycles, including knowledge-building sessions, planning support, modelling and coaching. The implementation team meets fortnightly to review progress and troubleshoot challenges. As the year progresses, the team monitors implementation outcomes to adjust plans and coordinate scaling up, ensuring consistent use and ongoing support as needed.
Keywords: evidence-based education, practice implementation