School Reform and Improvement

Research and Best Practices in School Reform and Improvement

Questions to Ask About CSRD Models Dr. Sharon Beckstrom, Senior Research Associate at RMC Research Corporation, a partner of the Region III Comprehensive Center

(1) Theoretical or Research Base for the Program

What are the major components of the theoretical or research base? Does the research described match the major components of the model? Does the research base correspond to your school environment? Can you explain the theoretical or research base for the program? Why would I believe this model will make a difference in our school?

(2) Evaluation-based Evidence of Improvement in Student Achievement

Is there an evaluation which focuses on student achievement? Who conducted the evaluation? What type of assessments were used in the evaluation? What period of time does the evaluation cover? What academic subjects were evaluated? Did the model improve the achievement of all children? Was the model especially effective or ineffective with certain populations? How long before schools show achievement gains? Must the model be fully implemented to show achievement gains? Are gains sustained and continually improved? What evidence is there that this model will make a difference in our school?

(3) Evidence of effective implementation

What are the necessary steps to implement the model? What is the time-line for implementation? What resources are needed to fully implement the model? What curriculum changes will be made if the model is implemented? What changes in school organization and climate will occur? What professional development is needed? How are parents and community involved? What resources and professional development does the developer provide? How is on-going support provided? How will implementing this model change our school?

(4) Evidence of replicability

Where else is the model in use? How long has the model been in use in various types of schools? What variations in the model occur between different schools? What barriers did schools encounter when implementing the model? What factors supported successful implementation? Can I visit or talk to schools currently using the model? Will this model work in our school? Prepared by the Region III Comprehensive Center at George Washington University