Research Brief: Foundational Learning Gaps After School Closures

This brief summarises published research on foundational literacy and numeracy recovery.

Key findings

1. Learning losses were largest among early-grade learners.
2. Structured, level-appropriate instruction ("teaching at the right level") produced the fastest recovery.
3. Short daily sessions outperformed longer weekly sessions.

Implications for educators

• Assess learners by level rather than by grade.
• Group learners flexibly and regroup often.
• Involve families with simple at-home reading routines.

Limitations

Most studies were short-term. Long-run effects need further evaluation.

Download the full brief using the link on this page.