It's a collaboration not a course: Evaluation of the effectiveness of the University of Melbourne Network of Schools 2014-17

The University of Melbourne Network of Schools (UMNOS) is an initiative of the University run by the Melbourne Graduate School of Education (MGSE). Over ninety schools were involved in the period 2014-17. The UMNOS Research Steering Committee requested this evaluation into the effectiveness of UMNOS to date, seeking evidence in relation to four areas: the key characteristics and perceived goals of UMNOS; the most effective features of the structure and practice of the UMNOS network in assisting schools to better identify goals, work with partners to implement evidence-based practices and improve student outcomes; the evidence base to support judgements that UMNOS makes a difference to student learning; and how UMNOS might operate more effectively in future. School teams used a range of evidence to measure their impact, and reported improved student learning outcomes in particular cases. However, the collective impact of the work across schools was harder to identify.