IEA's R&D (Research and Development) fifth call is open. IEA invites research proposals to improve and advance the science and methodology of IEA studies, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of international large-scale assessments in education.
The R&D program welcomes proposals from all groups, and awards will be based on proposal merit only. Researchers external to IEA (e.g., individuals or those associated with a university or survey organization), staff and experts from study centers for IEA studies, and IEA staff may submit a proposal.
The fifth R&D call is thematically open, continuing to build on IEA’s mission to advance research and innovation. IEA would like to highlight areas of importance that align with current IEA interests and priorities:
- accommodating diversity by making assessments and questionnaires more accessible (e.g., for students with special educational needs) or better targeting them to the contexts of low- and middle-income countries;
- comparability of assessments across cycles (e.g., assessment platform comparability, bridging of materials with different representations over time);
- systematic conceptualization of log and process data use from computer-based assessments and surveys that adds value for policy and practice;
- dealing with bias and non-response (e.g., sources of sampling bias, attrition in longitudinal studies, use of replacement units);
- application of machine learning, large language models, and artificial intelligence to the methods, procedures, and analysis of IEA studies;
- questionnaire design and innovative question formats; and
- data visualization and communication of results (e.g., clear communication of results and reducing a simplistic focus on league tables).
Further information about the call and how to apply can be found here.
Proposals may be submitted via the Good Grants system by 13:00 CEST 15 September 2025.
R&D at the IEA International Research Conference (IRC)
For researchers who are registered to attend the IEA IRC, don’t miss the R&D dedicated session Outcomes of the IEA R&D Fund on Wednesday, 25 June at 16:00−17:30 in Aula 17.
About R&D
IEA proudly started its R&D calls in 2021 and has awarded 23 research proposals with funding. Read the available outcomes here.
We invite you to share this information with colleagues and look forward to receiving your proposals!