Nicola Pitchford
Professor Emeritus University of Nottingham
Head of Quality Assurance ICEI
Expert in Foundational Learning and Randomized controlled trials
Professor Nicola Pitchford has led a series of empirical studies in Malawi, where she evaluated onebillion’s tablet-based learning app for foundational numeracy and literacy. The randomized controlled trials she conducted there demonstrated dramatic learning gains—students achieved 12 to 18 months’ worth of progress in just six weeks. Building on this success, the Malawi government, in partnership with VSO and onebillion, scaled the program nationally across primary schools. Pitchford then spearheaded comparative trials in the UK, confirming similarly strong outcomes in English schools . Her leadership in translating rigorous research into national-level education reform showcases her impact in educational innovation and policy.
