Evaluation of Better Start with a Particular Focus on the Better Start National Early Years Quality Development Service (QDS)

Project Description

The Centre for Effective Services (CES), in partnership with members of Marino Institute of Education, are undertaking an evaluation of Better Start, with a focus on the Better Start National Early Years Quality Development Service (QDS). The research team are passionate about the prospect of this work and believe that our proposed team brings the expertise and experience to deliver this evaluation to the very highest of standards. The project seeks to answer the following questions: 

1. Does Better Start QDS contribute to improved quality of practice in early learning and care settings?
2. Does Better Start QDS contribute to improved outcomes?
3. Is the current approach appropriate in the national context?

To answer these questions, the evaluation team proposes the use of a ‘pragmatic evaluation design’ which utilises multiple research methods to assess the implementation, outputs, outcomes and appropriateness of a complex programme within a short timeframe.

Research Team

Dr. Lauren Kavanagh; Centre for Effective Services (PI)

Dr Maja Haals Brosnan, MIE

Dr Rhona Stallard, MIE

Dr Natasha O'Donnell, MIE

Rachel Redmond (Research assistant)

Outputs

Report to DCEDIY

Funder 

DCEDIY (Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth) €11,250 (MIE budget)

Dates

June 2022-December 2023