Liberian primary education project (PEP) : final report

The report covers the project from its 5/88 inception to its premature termination in 5/90. Two events caused the project to be prematurely terminated. First, all USAID/L projects were going to be phased out as of 2/91 because the Government of Liberia did not meet outstanding debt obligations under the Brooke Amendment. Second, civil warfare forced the closure of Liberia"s schools and evacuation of project staff in 5/90. However, because the project had already been operating on a accelerated implementation schedule, much of what was scheduled to be accomplished in 5 years was accomplished in 2. The project strengthened management of the Bureau of Primary Education (BPE) through training of officers and the introduction of several new administrative procedures. Training was also provided to 2,010 teachers and principals in the use of the new materials and methods and to 214 supervisors (BPE supervisors, district education officers, Peace Corps volunteers, principals, and others) in instructional supervision. Actual supervision of school sites was constrained, however, by a lack of transportation. A pilot radio activity led to the production and broadcast of 60 radio programs to provide additional instruction to 2nd and 5th grade teachers and to principals. The programs were aired during recess time, and were found to have a positive effect on both teaching and administrative performance. More than 99% of teachers and principals reported that they liked the radio programs and requested more. Criterion referenced tests were completed in the subjects of language, reading, social studies, mathematics, and science for each of the six primary grades. A random sample of schools participating in the reform program was selected and a strategy developed for administering the test. The closing of schools and the evacuation of staff prevented the administration of the tests. Participant training was also short-circuited due to the unrest.