CEEL has initiated various research and evaluation projects that collect and analyze qualitative and quantitative data to further inform instructional practices for English Language Learners. Examples of current projects follow:

• PROMISE in Action- The Impact on Teacher Knowledge and Efficacy Related to the Use of Research-based Approaches in the Education of English Learners

Description: CEEL is conducting a study that documents current practice and describes the impact of the PROMISE Initiative on teacher knowledge and efficacy, as well as capacity and use of research-based instruction.  Classroom observations, focus groups, surveys, and interviews with teachers at the school-site level will be utilized in this research.

• Advocacy-Oriented Leadership for English Language Learner Achievement

Description: CEEL, in collaboration with the PROMISE Initiative, seeks to impact administrator knowledge, capacity, and use of research-based approaches as they relate to English learner success.  The purpose of this study is to generate an evidence base for powerful and transformative advocacy-oriented leadership for English learners.  Surveys of site-level principals, along with structured follow-up interviews and/or focus groups will be utilized in this research.

•  Lennox School District and Urban School Districts Reform Initiative (USDRI) Evaluation
  

Description:  The Weingart Foundation launched the Urban Public School Districts Initiative in 2006 to support targeted reform efforts within districts with effective plans for change.  The goal of this initiative is to positively impact education by supporting sustainable reforms in districts educating high number of low-income students.  Drs. Magaly Lavadenz and Elvira Armas were invited to partner with Lennox School District (one of four districts participating in this initiative) and are currently serving as evaluators for the district’s reform initiative.  As such, they have designed an evaluation plan to effectively measure the implementation efforts of the district with a focus on long-term English learner achievement, professional development for teachers of English learners participating in this initiative, and parent programs and education for participating students.