Lessons Learnt in the Use of 'Contract' Teachers. Synthesis Report

This report sheds light on the use of contract teachers with a particular focus on Cambodia, Nicaragua and India--countries that have all relied on contract teachers at some point. The report documents the use of contract teachers in Cambodia, Nicaragua and India and outlines the experience of contract teachers in West Africa. It also discusses the recent experience of Sweden and England in reforming teacher policies. It provides lessons learned and highlights policy recommendations. The report highlights how the use of contract teachers has expanded educational access, especially in ensuring that ethnic minorities and remote areas are served. However, ensuring quality learning for all students remains a challenge. Policy recommendations include: (1) provide incentives to reward teachers for performance such as professional development; (2) establish increased accountability with the school community; (3) restructure the school force so contract teachers work alongside regular teachers; (4) absorb contract teachers into the regular teaching body; (5) ensure there is a careful plan when phasing out contract teachers; and (6) involve teacher unions in education policy development and implementation. Appended is: Summary table of contract teachers' employment conditions in West African countries. [This report was completed as part of a study on "Contract Teachers and their Impact on Meeting EFA [Education For All] Goals" undertaken for the World Bank and financed through the Norwegian Trust Fund.]