What Is It Like to Be a Guinea Pig? Teacher Experiences in a Randomized Controlled Trial

• In Event: Poster Session 15
  In Poster Session: Poster Fair B: Data Use and Research in the Schools

Abstract

The demand for more rigorous research in education has increased the number and intensity of studies conducted in schools. Yet the voices of teachers who participate are missing from the literature. We examined the experiences of 115 teachers in a randomized controlled trial. The majority of treatment and control teachers were pleased to be part of the study. More than the study’s monetary incentives, treatment teachers valued the free professional development and opportunity to contribute to the research base. Control teachers looked forward to receiving the training after data collection ended. The assessment burden and classroom observations were the most common complaints. Findings have implications for researchers conducting applied research in schools, particularly those utilizing a control or comparison group.

Authors

• Elizabeth Autio, Education Northwest

• Kari Nelsestuen, Education Northwest