Longitudinal Study Plans in Progress

As part of our ongoing commitment to provide the most valid and reliable research to support the efficacy of our programs, Prentice Hall has contracted with various research firms and universities to conduct rigorous, independent, quantitative study on the effects of Prentice Hall programs beginning in the 2004–2005 school year.

These longitudinal studies will consist of a randomized control trial that has been designed to fully meet the quality criteria put forth by the What Works Clearinghouse in the Study DIAD (v. 1.0)¹.

Both qualitative and quantitative instruments have been developed and/or adapted for the studies. The studies will examine teacher's implementation of the Prentice Hall curriculum as well as a diverse set of student outcomes that together give a comprehensive picture of how the Prentice Hall curriculum effects students' achievement during middle school and high school. The primary questions motivating this research include the following:

1. What is the relation between program implementation and student achievement?
2. What is the relation among students' higher-order thinking, student attitudes towards the subject area, and achievement levels?
3. How do student outcomes differ for Prentice Hall programs compared to other similar programs?
4. How do students with different characteristics (e.g., English Learners, various ethnic groups and socio-economic status) participating in the Prentice Hall program perform on student-related outcomes?

Results will be published as they become available. Please come back and visit soon.

¹ Valentine, J.C. & Cooper H. (2003). What Works Clearinghouse Study Design and Implementation Assessment Device (Version 0.6). Washington, DC: US Department of Education.