How We Rate the Research

 

In order to earn the Research Based seal of approval, EdU requires that a product’s research meets NCLB  requirements.  EdU considers this Gold Standard Research. NCLB  legislation very carefully outlines its definition of scientifically based research.  Essentially, NCLB requires that the research be rigorous, performed by credentialed researchers, and backed by a reputable research entity.  It does not limit what research can be part of a product's portfolio, but it is very clear that any product must include research that meets the following criteria:

· Research must be empirical, systematic, and reproducible.

· Research must be experimental or quasi-experimental.

· Research must have been subject to peer-review or comparable process.

 

             NCLB , therefore, is the minimum standard by which all research is judged.  Smaller companies or companies with new products may not have research conducted directly involving that product, but that product may be based on sound, well-researched, educational principles.  On the other hand, larger companies or well-established products may have research conducted directly involving their product — a prohibitively expensive process for most companies.   Other types of research may be presented as well — action research, qualitative research, literature reviews, test score comparisons, etc.   This type of research is valuable to consumers, even if it does not meet the NCLB  Gold Standard.

 

             EdU utilizes a simple classification system within its Research Based Certification Process:

 

Satisfactory

This rating indicates that NLCB compliant, scholarly research supports the effectiveness of this product based on its underlying methodology, educational practices, and/or learning principles.   Also included in the product’s research portfolio may be data directly related to the product itself which may not have been formally presented or professionally produced but could be helpful to educators.  Such information may include testimonials, raw data, and promotional materials which can be considered as supporting this product’s overall efficacy.

 

Excellent

This rating indicates that NLCB compliant, scholarly research supports the effectiveness of this product based on its underlying methodology, educational practices, and/or learning principles.  In addition to meeting satisfactory requirements, professionally produced or presented evidence directly related to the product itself has also been presented whose data support the efficacy of this product in educational settings.

 

Superior

This rating indicates that a product’s research portfolio contains NCLB compliant research which directly involves the product.  Additionally, a superior rating indicates that a portfolio also contains other supporting evidence and types of research — meeting all or most of the previous categories.

 

What about Unsatisfactory?

EdU pre-evaluates all products’ research before offering a company membership.  In other words, EdU will not accept a company into membership whose product is not expected to meet NCLB requirements within a reasonable amount of time.

 

 

 

 

 

Satisfactory, Excellent, Superior