JET conceived a research ‘Bootcamp’ methodology in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting lockdowns. The Bootcamps titled #OpenupYourThinking were designed to engage young researchers (<35y) in research work under the guidance of more experienced researchers/practitioners and also to give them an opportunity to participate in an innovative online approach that would allow for learning to take place between peers while feeding into actual national processes under way.
The overarching research question was “What are the best mega-, meta and micro-level educational strategies to be used during times of crisis?” The South African Bootcamp commenced at the start of lockdown in South Africa. Subsequently, the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Southern African Development Community through the UNESCO ROSA adopted the methodology and appointed JET to manage their projects.
Across the three research initiatives, over 400 researchers and academics were engaged in meaningful research during the worst days of the pandemic lockdowns. Over 30 reports and associated infographics were published across a variety of themes, with several being launched via live streaming.
