Das Wiener Bildungsversprechen
Process evaluation of the two-year pilot phase
The evaluation accompanied Das Wiener Bildungsversprechen (WBV), a project to promote the self-directed development of Viennese compulsory schools. Since 2022, it has responded to the diverse challenges faced by schools, supporting them in addressing these challenges and sustainably advancing school development processes.
The project takes a holistic view of education and school development. On the basis of school-specific agreements, schools implement development processes in areas such as organisational development, teaching development, team development, and digital development. In doing so, they are supported by partners from the Education Directorate and school administration, the University College of Teacher Education, as well as external coaches and consultants.
We evaluated the first two cycles of the programme using qualitative and quantitative methods: we analysed relevant documents, conducted interviews and focus groups with the project team, partners, school staff, and WBV consultants, observed case studies on-site at schools, and implemented an online survey. On this basis, we were able to trace the structure and development of the programme, share knowledge about its potentials and challenges with those responsible, and systematically assess adjustments made during the programme process.
The data collected over three years provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding programme-supported school development in the context of the WBV. The final report shows how the measures of Das Wiener Bildungsversprechen were steered in a sustainable and systemic way, identifies key challenges, and formulates recommendations for education policy and programme stakeholders.
