NWEA

Research is the foundation of our work

Our Research and Innovation Centers focus on the places where research, policy, and practice intersect to bring perspectives forward through unparalleled original research.

Our anonymized, longitudinal student data is a powerful tool for studying a wide range of education topics. With this vast pool of data, researchers and educators can compare student growth among similar students across the country to examine trends and explore gaps in achievement.

NWEA education research has been at the heart of who we are and what we do for more than 40 years.

The individual centers enable NWEA to provide deeper insights across a broader range of topics, to inform both policy and practice as we work to improve education and learning.
Chris Minnich, CEO, NWEA

Exploring student equity, opportunity, and access

The Collaborative for Student Growth investigates the fundamental questions around educational equity, opportunity, and access. Through original research, as well as research partnerships with respected universities, foundations, and think tanks, the Collaborative seeks to broaden our understanding of the challenges facing students and inform new ways of serving them.

We are at a pivotal time where communities and schools are navigating issues of equity, poverty, and achievement gaps against a backdrop of shifting education policy. Our access to exceptional data and a multi-disciplinary team of researchers uniquely positions us to undertake research into these critical issues.
Beth Tarasawa, Ph.D., Director of the Collaborative for Student Growth

Making assessment data approachable

The researchers and scientists in the Center for School and Student Progress provide expert consultation and analysis to the teachers and administrators who use NWEA assessments in schools around the world. In partnership with educators, the Center aims to make assessments relevant and actionable through sound practice and informed local policy.

Our work focuses on issues that directly impact educators and their students, with practical implications for the classroom. The Center’s skillset of assessment expertise, consulting skills, and data analysis is unique in the industry and enables us to engage directly with schools to influence practices and local policies that promote student success.Nate Jensen, Ph.D., Interim Director of the Center for School and Student Progress

Exploring the future of assessment

The future of assessment is right around the corner, and the Product Innovation Center is exploring how emerging technologies will pave the way. Through its Partners in Innovation program, researchers in the Product Innovation Center collaborate with students and educators to inform the next generation of assessment.

Our Center is dedicated to understanding how to harness technologies to better assess students, and understand how they’re learning and growing. We’re working closely with schools to identify the most innovative designs that provide the greatest opportunity to improve assessment for all.Mike Nesterak, Sr. Director of the Product Innovation Center

Explore the work of the Research & Innovation Centers