Scaling Digitally-Supported Innovations to Accelerate Learning from Within the Instructional Core: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 4:15 pm - Gold 4
  In Roundtable Session: Innovating Evaluation: Data-Driven Approaches to Understanding Impact

Abstract

This mixed-methods evaluation investigates the scaling of 10 digitally-supported, evidence-based innovations aimed at accelerating K–12 learning from within the instructional core. Anchored in Elmore’s instructional core framework and grounded in co-designed research–practice partnerships, the study explores how these innovations were implemented across 33 states, the conditions that enabled or hindered scaling, and the resulting effects on student outcomes. Data sources include teacher surveys, implementation trackers, leader interviews, and student achievement metrics. Preliminary findings reveal that successful scaling hinges on alignment with district goals, leadership engagement, teacher agency, and access to actionable student data. This research contributes to the literature on sustainable educational innovation by illuminating the intersection of scale, equity, and instructional improvement in diverse, technology-integrated contexts.

Authors

• Beth R. Holland, FullScale

• Megan Benay, FullScale

• Rae Lymer, FullScale