Crossing the Divide: Integrating Doing What Works Resources Into Professional Learning—Results From Four Implementation Projects

Session Submission Type: Symposium

Abstract

This session will present the research findings from four Implementation Awards given to nonprofit organizations and institutions of higher education by the U.S. Department of Education’s Doing What Works Initiative (DWW). The Implementation Awards were provided for the integration of DWW resources into professional learning in pre-service and in-service professional development. Results of the studies suggest that a detailed, structured process is needed for implementing evidence-based practices for improving teaching and learning; there are a range of effective methods to support educators in the implementation of evidence-based resources; educators are responsive to the use of research when it is presented in a timely, accessible, and relevant manner; and there may be a need for additional ongoing support to bridge the gap between research and practice based on a knowledge utilization model (research > dissemination > use and application).

Sub Unit

• SIG-Research Use

Chair

• Marlene J. Darwin, American Institutes for Research

Papers

• Knowledge to Action: The CONNECT (Center to Mobilize Early Childhood Knowledge) Web-Based Module on Dialogic Reading - Pamela J. Winton, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

• Helping It Happen: Getting Effective Vocabulary Instruction for English Language Learners Into Practice - Barbara D. Acosta, The George Washington University

• Supporting School Improvement in an Oregon Education Service District Using Doing What Works Resources - Jacqueline Beth Raphael, Education Northwest

• “Doing What Works” for Transition Kindergarten Dual Language Learners: A Focus on Effective Classroom Practices for Dialogic Reading - Magaly Lavadenz, Loyola Marymount University; Elvira Garcia Armas, Loyola Marymount University

Discussant

• Joseph F. Johnson, San Diego State University