This rapid review aims to examine:

• The conceptual frameworks underpinning education systems research in low and middle income countries (LMICS) and to what extent these are clearly articulated and widely accepted.
• The extent and nature of education systems research in LMICs, its key findings and quality.

The results of the review are presented in 4 sections:

1. Conceptual frameworks proposed by International Organisations and Programmes
2. Discussion papers, Literature Reviews and Strategy Documents proposing  a conceptual framework for education systems
3. Individual country case studies of education systems
4. Comparative case studies or comparative education systems research across countries

Conclusions include:

• A wide range of conceptual frameworks were identified regarding education systems in low and middle income countries but these were not accepted widely or used extensively as a basis for research.
• Many of the conceptual frameworks were proposed in policy discussion papers or developed as implementation tools rather than being primarily intended as research frameworks.
• There is a need for more agreement regarding the conceptual frameworks which should underpin education systems research to enable more direct comparison between research studies and the development of a strong evidence base.