School leaders often face the responsibility of assessing the effectiveness of math, reading, and other curricula and instructional approaches for their schools. Making informed decisions in this regard requires examining research and using evidence to gauge their impact. However, it's important to recognize that not all research is of equal quality. To address this challenge, the Institute of Education Sciences, within the U.S. Department of Education, established the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC).
The WWC is a trusted and authoritative resource dedicated to advancing evidence-based practices in education. It systematically reviews and evaluates research studies, programs, and interventions across a wide range of educational topics, from literacy strategies to educational technology. By rigorously assessing the quality of research and the effectiveness of various interventions, the WWC provides educators, policymakers, and stakeholders with clear, unbiased guidance on what works in education. Its mission is to empower decision-makers with evidence to make informed choices, ultimately enhancing the quality of education and improving student outcomes nationwide.