What does “scientifically based research” mean?

Scientifically based research is "research that involves the application of rigorous, systematic, and objective procedures to obtain reliable and valid knowledge relevant to education activities and programs."

Are Renaissance Learning’s progress-monitoring systems scientifically research based?

Yes. Studies designs on Renaissance progress-monitoring assessments and personalized practice tools include more than 50 experimental and quasi-experimental research studies—generally considered by both the No Child Left Behind Act and the research community to provide the strongest evidence of effectiveness and to be consistent with the definition of scientifically based research—as well as correlational, case study, and reliability and validity research. Study results are sustainable and replicable, and are often experienced in schools with diverse settings. Many are published in peer-reviewed journals, and thus upheld to the highest scrutiny. To learn more, search the Renaissance Learning Research Library.

Is there independent research on Renaissance Learning’s progress-monitoring and personalized practice tools?

Yes. Eighty percent of research on Renaissance Learning tools been conducted independently or externally by university researchers, research firms, or school personnel. Renaissance Learning researchers, psychometricians, and product developers have authored the balance. To date, 243 studies and reviews have been conducted on Renaissance Learning tools, including 198 by independent researchers, professors, school administrators, and teachers. A breakdown of the types of research supporting Renaissance products can be found here.

Are any studies on Renaissance Learning’s progress-monitoring and personalized practice tools published in peer-reviewed journals?

Yes. Currently, 26 studies on Renaissance progress-monitoring and personalized practice tools appear in peer-reviewed journals. Peer-reviewed journals publish only the highest quality research. The peer-review process is very rigorous and time consuming; it requires a panel of experts to scrutinize the research study and agree that it is of extremely high quality. A list of peer-reviewed research on Renaissance Learning Tools can be found here.