Evidence Refresher
Recall What Evidence Is
Evidence is a body of facts or information that indicates whether a belief or proposition is true or valid.
When we talk about research, evidence is any systematic observation to establish facts and reach conclusions.
Evidence-based means an activity, strategy, or intervention that demonstrates a statistically significant effect — that is, a result that is not attributed to chance — on improving outcomes for students.
There are two types of data that contribute to evidence:
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Quantitative Data
Expresses a certain quantity, amount, or range. It can either be counted or compared on a numeric scale.
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Qualitative Data
Describes qualities or characteristics and are often descriptive or conceptual. It is collected using questionnaires, interviews, or observations.
And, what does evidence-based mean
Any activity, strategy, or intervention that demonstrates a statistically significant effect — that is, a result that is not attributed to chance — on improving outcomes for students, is evidence-based.
The U.S. Department of Education categorizes evidence as follows:
Strong Evidence
From at least one well-designed and well-implemented experimental studyModerate Evidence
From at least one well-designed and well-implemented quasi-experimental studyPromising Evidence
From at least one well-designed and well-implemented correlational study with statistical controls and selection bias, or evidence that demonstrates a rationale based on high-quality research findings or evaluation that shows improved student outcomes