We partnered with the UChicago Consortium to study the implementation of Common Core Math and Next Generation Science State Standards in Chicago Public Schools.
ABOUT the UCHICago consortium
Large changes in instruction have been implemented throughout Chicago Public Schools over the past ten years in addition to an adoption of Common Core Math and Next Generation Science Standards. The Consortium on School Research at the University of Chicago has studied similar large and well intentioned initiatives that ultimately led to worse outcomes for the students. Thus, the Consortium and Chicago Public Schools aim to identify the overall impact of the new initiatives surrounding the new standards and their implementation.
PROJECT IMPACT
Implementation factors include student performance, differences in schools’ organizational capacities, professional development available to teachers, and direct feedback on instruction from teachers and students. Outcomes currently include students’ self reported clarity of instruction, academic rigor, teacher personalism, academic “press”, and engagement with the courses of interest. Analysis is largely conducted through three level hierarchical linear models; the first level being students, the second being time periods, and the third being schools.
Findings from this work will be used within 700 CPS schools to improve students’ classroom engagement and post-secondary outcomes, as well as inform future efforts to implement standards in urban schools across the country.