Job Summary:

RTI International (RTI) is hiring a short-term Consultant for USAID’s UPSKILL Program. The Consultant will be responsible for conducting research on lifelong learning and microcredentials from higher education institutions (HEI) who indicated that they offer such programs. This research output will be shared with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and will form part of the recommendation of the Technical Working Group on Lifelong Learning in developing a lifelong learning strategy.

The research study is expected to answer the following illustrative research questions:

• What models of lifelong learning and microcredentials are being offered by HEIs? How do they contribute in ensuring a future-ready workforce and at the same time address evolving demands from industries?
• What quality assurance mechanisms are employed to ensure recognition and portability of qualifications from microcredentials and lifelong learning initiatives from HEIs and other stakeholders?
• What are international best practices and innovations in microcredentials and lifelolng learning that relate specifically to the education sector that could be adopted in the Philippines?
• Which policies and practices have to be reviewed and amended to enable more effective and efficient delivery?

Responsibilities

The Consultant is expected to perform the following tasks:

• Analyze the results of the survey. This will entail comparing and analyzing the results of 2 surveys (industry and HEIs).
• Draw conclusions and ways forward. The Consultant is expected to offer his/her insights, conclusions and ways forward based on the survey results that will be shared by RTI.
• Develop a research report outline. A one- to two-page research outline shall be submitted by the Consultant.
• Complete a final research report. The final report will answer all agreed upon research questions. The report will be approximately 10-15 pages (font size 12, single space). The Consultant will incorporate UPSKILL feedback into the report before it is accepted.

Expected Deliverables and Payment Structure:

The Consultant will complete and be paid for the following deliverables:

UPSKILL anticipates that the consultant contract will be fixed price and that the Consultant will be paid for successful completion and acceptance of deliverables.

The Consultant should include all costs in the total fixed price proposed for the assignment.

Qualifications

• Preferably a master’s degree holder in education, educational technology and related fields or Bachelor’s degree with at least 3-5 years of work experience in educational research and research management for 3-5 years.
• Demonstrated ability to work with CHED, other government agencies, higher education institutions, and other lifelong learning providers in the country.
• Expertise in lifelong learning, open education or adult education.
• Demonstrated ability to build and sustain professional working relationships with CHED and Higher Education Officials and HEIs
• Excellent analytical and interpersonal skills.
• Outstanding research, coordination, and facilitation skills.
• High proficiency in English is required.
• Ability to work throughout the Philippines.
• This position is exclusively open for Philippine applicants.