This growing library features data points that describe the impacts and outcomes of student-centered and competency-based approaches to teaching and learning. The data is sourced from research studies, evaluation reports and journal articles, as well as evidence collected directly by classroom, school, district and state leaders using student-centered and personalized learning approaches.
A study of Denver's reform strategy from 2008-2019, shows the move to a portfolio model of governance resulted in student gains. Before reforms, the district ranked in the bottom 5th percentile of Colorado districts on standardized state assessments in ELA and math. In 2019 performance rose to 60th and 63rd percentile in ELA and math, respectively.
A study of the impact of Denver's reform strategy, moving to a portfolio model of governance prioritizing school-level autonomy, showed improved graduation rates. Over 11 years, four-year graduation rates rose from 43% to 71%. Had reforms not occurred, predicted rates for 2019 were below 60%.
Students who learned the skills of sociopolitical efficacy and critical reflection were more likely to take sociopolitical action. These findings suggest providing classroom-based leadership opportunities if we seek to foster youth’s engagement in sociopolitical action.
