Overview
What it is
Education is full of confident claims — about programs, products, and methods that promise to boost learning. Some are well-supported; many aren’t. A little research literacy helps you tell the difference and make better decisions for your child.
How It Works
How it works
A few habits of a savvy consumer:
- Ask for the evidence“What research supports this?” is a fair question
- Beware single studiesOne study is a starting point, not proof
- Remember correlation isn’t causationTwo things moving together doesn’t mean one caused the other
- Watch for cherry-pickingVendors highlight favorable results; look for the full picture
- Check independenceWho funded or conducted the study?
Types & Options
Types & options
What makes evidence stronger or weaker:
- Study designRandomized and well-controlled studies give stronger causal evidence than casual observation
- ReplicationFindings that hold up across multiple studies and settings are more trustworthy than a single study
- SampleBigger, more representative groups beat tiny or unusual ones
- Peer reviewPublished, reviewed research is more reliable than marketing
- Effect sizeAsk not just “did it work?” but “how much?” and “for whom?”
Benefits
Why it matters
Where to look: for K-12, the federal What Works Clearinghouse reviews evidence on programs and practices. Reading a plain-language summary from an independent source beats trusting a product’s own marketing. Being a careful consumer protects your time, money, and — most importantly — your child’s learning.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- What does “evidence-based” mean?Ideally, supported by well-designed, replicated research — but the term is sometimes used loosely.
- Is one study enough?No — look for findings that replicate across studies and settings.
- What’s the most common error?Confusing correlation with causation.
- Where can I check programs?The federal What Works Clearinghouse reviews K-12 evidence.
At a Glance
Key facts
- Stronger evidenceWell-designed, replicated studies
- Key trapCorrelation isn’t causation
- Ask“How much, and for whom?”
- CheckThe What Works Clearinghouse
Learn More
Where to learn more
Learn more: