Studying the Implementation and Effectiveness of Postsecondary Education Access and Success Strategies and Programs

Background
The U.S. Department of Education (ED), through its Institute of Education Sciences (IES), is conducting market research to assess interest and capability in evaluating postsecondary education access and success strategies. This initiative aligns with federal policy goals to make postsecondary education affordable and to close equity gaps in enrollment and completion rates.

The contract aims to rigorously evaluate ED's various programs, including TRIO and GEAR UP, which support students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Recent trends indicate a decline in college matriculation rates during the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitating effective evaluation strategies to improve outcomes for participants in these programs.

Work Details
The contractor will assist IES in designing and conducting evaluations of postsecondary education access and success programs. Key tasks include:
1. Meetings: Facilitate communication between IES and contractor staff, including initial meetings to discuss tasks and ongoing progress updates.
2. Technical Working Group (TWG): Gather feedback from TWGs on evaluation plans.
3. Feasibility and Design: Propose study design options for evaluations, conduct feasibility assessments, and identify treatment for studies.
4. Systematic Evidence Review: Conduct evidence reviews following WWC standards to assess the effectiveness of programs.
5. Prepare OMB Forms Clearance Packages: Obtain necessary approvals for data collection.
6. Outreach and Site Recruitment: Develop strategies for recruiting participants for studies.
7. Data Collection: Administer surveys, conduct interviews, collect records data, and ensure high response rates.
8. Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze collected data, prepare reports summarizing findings, and ensure accessibility for policymakers.

Place of Performance
The work will primarily be performed at ED offices in Washington DC or virtually as needed.