So many grant proposals now require that we cite scientifically based research. I can find reports and studies online, but how do I determine whether or not the results show "strong" or "possible" evidence that an intervention worked?
There is still a great need for research that meets the new requirements. In the meantime, educators need to work with what's available. Most of us do not have strong backgrounds in research, which makes the task of identifying relevant and rigorous research more difficult.
The U.S. Department of Education recently published a guide that can help you evaluate existing research. Titled Identifying and Implementing Educational Practices Supported by Rigorous Evidence, you can download this free booklet at the Department's Institute of Education Sciences page. Look for "New Guide on Evidence Based Education." It's available in PDF and HTML format.
Submitted by: Susan Brooks-Young
