Allama Iqbal Open University  is leading research in the “Networked Improvement Communities for School Leaders Towards Equity and Inclusion” project in Pakistan, working with small groups of school leaders in two provinces.  The project utilizes an innovative  approach with school leaders to explore changes in  school practices to address inequalities in student access and learning. It builds on the value of ‘bottom up’ change characterized by decentralized and participatory structures.  

School leaders work collaboratively in professional communities known as Networked Improvement Communities (NICs), on small experiments to tackle ‘micro problems’ of inclusion. These specific issues for collective exploration and action are decided by each NIC to ensure local relevance of the micro problem. They analyze the selected ‘micro problem’ and use PDSA cycles (Plan, Do, Study, Act) to enact and evaluate data-driven small changes.  School leaders are supported by local experts and resources from an open course, accessed through a blended mode. The course was developed by AIOU and partners to give school leaders access to a range of ideas and tools to help them identify and try out solutions to small inclusion challenges.  

The AIOU team have carried out mixed methods research with the school leaders to capture changes in inclusion practices.  A number of different issues were identified by school leaders, many relating to constraints on student access to school.  School leaders have explored a number of possible activities to improve these issues – some successful, others less so. However even when solutions were not successful or sustainable school leaders have  expanded their understandings of inclusive education practice; many had previously associated the term ‘ inclusion’  solely with educational access for children with disabilities. Overall the approach was welcomed by school leaders and the AIOU team are now working with government institutions, private institutions and NGOs to explore further adoption and adaption of this model.   

 NIC members are supported in this activity by interactive open resources and NIC facilitators.