Research for Action begins every project by identifying the most pressing research questions, and employing the methodological approach that will yield the most robust and useful results. Our studies employ rigorous quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods approaches to arrive at an analysis that is insightful, actionable, and relevant to a range of stakeholders.

Qualitative research capabilities:

Research for Action built its reputation on conducting careful analyses of the context and conditions of educational reform. Our research and evaluation pays attention to the viewpoints and experiences of a range of educational stakeholders, including students, teachers, parents, educational administrators and educational policymakers. We utilize interviews, observation, document review and media scans to highlight, rather than obscure, the complexities of education.

Quantitative research capabilities:

Design and implementation of impact studies with quantitative outcomes

• Researchers at RFA design quantitative studies that provide the right type of evidence needed by clients. Small-scale exploratory studies may involve just a few schools and a comparison group selected for convenience. More sophisticated studies use experimental or quasi-experimental research methods such as Interrupted Time Series analysis. RFA researchers have been trained in rigorous methods for studying impact and have managed large-scale national randomized trials.

Analysis of complex administrative datasets

• Administrative databases from schools, agencies, and postsecondary institutions increasingly are used to track trends in achievement and graduation, assess program impacts, and identify places for intervention. RFA researchers have substantial experience in merging and analyzing complex longitudinal databases, including merging data across agencies and educational sectors. Research questions that can be addressed with these data sets range from the simple and descriptive to those requiring sophisticated multilevel modeling.

Survey design, administration, and interpretation of results

• Researchers at RFA have substantial experience in developing survey items and fielding surveys of students and teachers. Surveys are administered through traditional pencil-and-paper methods as well as Internet surveys.