MDRC's research studies are taking place in Boston, Massachusetts.
The team is working with elementary schools and Boston Public Schools' community-based PreK programs.
Policy and Practice Study:
Researchers will assess Boston Public Schools' prekindergarten through Grade 3 policies and practices as related to student experiences. Variables of interest include instructional content and dosage, teacher practices, instructional approach, school district culture and climate, and attributes of staff, families and students.
Classroom Observation Study:
Researchers will examine curricular alignment, quality of classroom interactions, teacher characteristics and practices, and the quality of language, literacy, and math instruction. The researchers will also examine a set of classroom population characteristics (e.g., dual language learners, low-income students).
Longitudinal Study:
Researchers will explore how classroom processes and practices, and family engagement in learning activities outside of school — including summer and after-school activities — relate to children’s developmental skill trajectory and third grade outcomes.
