Guidelines from Educational Psychology for Education Reform in Barbados

The field of educational psychology has produced extensive research evidence that can inform efforts to facilitate reform of education systems in many parts of the world. Currently, major reforms to the education system at the primary and secondary school levels are being considered in the small island state of Barbados, in the West Indies. This article suggests guidelines for reforming school education in Barbados that draw on international research evidence from educational psychology. The guidelines are conceptualized using the acronym PERFORMING to focus on ensuring that the education reforms are: Practicable, Effective, Relevant, Fair, Outcome-focused, Research-based, Modern, Inclusive, Nationally-equitable, and Globally-Competitive.