How can educational inequalities be effectively reduced? The new EU-funded research project TRANSFER, coordinated by the University of Fribourg, explores how education policies can be evaluated more effectively and how scientific evidence can play a greater role in political decision-making.

Across Europe, educational success continues to depend heavily on social background and other societal factors. Despite numerous policy measures, significant inequalities persist. At the same time, the effectiveness of these measures is often insufficiently evaluated, while scientific evidence is not adequately reflected in policy decisions and educational practice.

This is where the TRANSFER research project comes in. Coordinated by the University of Fribourg, an international research team is developing new approaches to evaluating education policies and strengthening exchanges between research, policymakers and practitioners.

Taking a broader approach to evaluating education policies
TRANSFER examines the entire policy process, from the development of a measure through its implementation to its intended and unintended effects.

«We want to better understand how education policies affect different population groups and how their impact varies across contexts. More systematic evaluation will help us identify effective approaches to reducing educational inequalities», explains Andreas Hadjar, Professor of Sociology, Social Policy and Social Research at the University of Fribourg and coordinator of the project.

The researchers are examining educational programmes and policy measures in Finland, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Lithuania, Norway, Spain and Switzerland. A common methodology enables comparisons across countries. Particular attention is paid to inequalities related to social background, migration, gender and disability.

Strengthening connections between research and practice
TRANSFER also explores how research findings can be better integrated into political decision-making and everyday educational practice. The project takes into account the experiences of policymakers, education professionals and learners.

«Knowledge transfer does not need to be a one-way process from research to policy and practice», Hadjar emphasises. «Rather, an ongoing exchange appears to be both sensible and effective, in which scientific evidence and practical experience play equally important roles.»

The project aims to develop practical tools, including methodological guidelines, policy recommendations, an interactive knowledge platform and an AI-powered simulation tool. In doing so, TRANSFER seeks to contribute to more evidence-based education policies and more equitable education systems across Europe.

A European research project led by the University of Fribourg
TRANSFER is led by the University of Fribourg under the coordination of Professor Andreas Hadjar. The consortium brings together 13 partner institutions from eight European countries. The project is funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe programme, with approximately €3.5 million over three years.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/transfer-eu-project/