Transforming education systems involves more than just improving their current functioning—it requires a fundamental shift in how these systems define their purpose and objectives. At times, systems transformation challenges existing norms, power dynamics, and cultural influences to create meaningful and lasting change in how education is delivered and experienced and the learning that comes from it.
Recognizing the importance of this endeavor, the Center for Universal Education at Brookings, alongside its partners, is building the Knowing-Doing Network (KDN), a globally interconnected community focused on transforming education systems to ensure that every child and young person develops the range of skills they need to thrive in today’s world. The KDN is made up of researchers, practitioners, policymakers, funders, teachers, families, young people and other passionate changemakers—individuals, organizations, and networks—from across the globe who are committed to making policy and practice in local, national, regional, and global education ecosystems relevant and equitable.
Downloads
The network approach
Networks bring together individuals, organizations, or entities in an interconnected whole to address complex social or systematic challenges. Unlike traditional organizations or hierarchical structures, networks are typically decentralized, flexible, and adaptive, allowing participants to share knowledge, resources, and strategies in a coordinated way.
The network approach rests on three pillars:
-
Connecting actors
The KDN connects multiple networks of education actors focused on key elements of education systems such as gender equality, family engagement, pedagogical mindsets, and early childhood, into a network of networks. This decentralized structure strengthens local and global partnerships across sectors and geographies, catalyzing collective learning and action.
-
Centering collaboration and mutual learning
The KDN creates spaces for collaborative, participatory research and strengthens its members through workshops, peer learning, and tools that enable networks to achieve greater collective impact. Members are encouraged to bring their diverse expertise, solutions, and strategies from their regions to support others across the network, fostering a collaborative ecosystem for transformative learning.
-
Shaping the global conversation
The KDN fosters continuous engagement through research, events, and webinars, enabling in-depth dialogue on complex educational challenges. By bringing local perspectives, especially from marginalized contexts, into global discussions, KDN members expand global actors’ understanding of education challenges and potential solutions, informing transformative change at the local and global level.
Ways to engage
Everyone has a role to play in transforming education systems—whether it’s through agenda setting, policy design, adoption and resourcing, effective implementation, or continuous evaluation and improvement. KDN’s vision is driven by a core question: Can a diverse group of committed education actors, dedicated to learning from and sharing with one another, truly influence how education systems foster skill development in children? We hope you will bring your expertise and knowledge to this vibrant community and join us in this crucial work.
The KDN Map
The map is a key component of collaboration and network development. It helps KDN members connect with others beyond their existing networks based on sector, expertise, geographic focus, skills, and common interests.
The KDN Newsletter
This monthly newsletter features events, resources, publications, and updates from across the network. We’re evolving it into a space for KDN members to spark mutual learning, spotlight insights, and discover opportunities for collaboration.
The KDN on LinkedIn
The KDN LinkedIn group is a dedicated space for members to share their work, exchange ideas, and engage in collaborative problem-solving around key issues in transforming education systems for holistic learning.
The Knowing Doing Network members
The Knowing-Doing Network is made up of both existing and developing networks with over 190 partners in 72 countries currently curated and coordinated by the Center for Universal Education at Brookings. Together, these networks engage in collaborative and participatory research to explore key elements of education systems through diverse lenses—including gender equality, family and community engagement, pedagogical mindsets, and breadth of skills.
The KDN Coordinating Group plays a vital role in shaping the network’s development, deepening engagement, and supporting collective growth. Drawn from across KDN’s diverse member networks, the coordinating group brings insights and leadership to strengthen shared learning and collaboration across the network.
