Technical Assistant for MTSS Model for Primary and Secondary Education

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, which was established in 194

• UNESCO aims to build peace through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. The organization has a mission to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, and culture. UNESCO operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization is committed to promoting education as a fundamental human right and works to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

Job Overview:
The Technical Assistant position is focused on supporting the Ministry of Education and Culture (MEC) in Samoa to develop a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) model for foundational learning in primary schooling. This role is crucial in the context of the System Transformation Grant Project, which aims to enhance educational outcomes through evidence-based interventions. The Technical Assistant will be responsible for conducting a literature review of existing MTSS models, diagnosing gaps in foundational literacy and numeracy, and identifying pilot schools for the MTSS intervention. The position requires a strong understanding of educational research, data analysis, and the ability to engage with various stakeholders in the education sector. The ultimate goal is to create a contextually adapted MTSS early intervention program that strengthens literacy and numeracy skills among primary students, thereby facilitating their transition to secondary education and beyond.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Technical Assistant include conducting a comprehensive literature review of MTSS intervention models, identifying a flexible three-tiered model suitable for Samoan schools, performing diagnostic assessments to analyze gaps in foundational literacy and numeracy, and identifying pilot schools for the MTSS intervention. Additionally, the Technical Assistant will develop a costed operational plan for the MTSS intervention, which includes scheduling, training sequences, data analysis, and resource requirements. The role also involves close collaboration with the MEC and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the MTSS model and to monitor and evaluate its effectiveness throughout the project duration.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master’s degree in education or a related field such as education planning and management, teacher training and development, or curriculum development. Additionally, candidates should have at least 10 years of relevant experience in educational research focused on foundational learning, with demonstrated expertise in both qualitative and quantitative data analysis. Experience in capacity building for educational outcomes and familiarity with education monitoring systems are also essential. A proven track record of academic research or publications, particularly in action research, is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a master’s degree in education or a postgraduate qualification in areas such as education planning and management, teacher training and development, assessment and learning, or primary and secondary level curriculum development. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of educational systems and for effectively contributing to the development of the MTSS model.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in educational research, particularly linked to foundational learning in literacy and numeracy. Candidates should have a strong background in qualitative and quantitative data analysis, as well as experience in supporting capacity building initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes. Familiarity with education monitoring systems and large assessment datasets is also important, along with a history of delivering comparable services in educational contexts.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of Samoan is also required. These language skills are essential for effective communication and engagement with stakeholders in the education sector in Samoa. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they facilitate better interaction with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is for a duration of 5 months, and it is open to both international and national consultants. The role is classified at Level 3, indicating a senior consultant position. The application deadline is set for midnight UTC+13 on 21 August 202

• The consultancy is expected to be all-inclusive of costs, including any travel expenses associated with executing the MTSS program. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence, and integrity in its hiring process, and it applies a zero-tolerance policy against harassment. The organization encourages applications from individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities.