NWEA Research
Why everything we do is rooted in research
We know educators need valid assessments and effective professional development—because nearly 40 years ago, we were founded by educators seeking to maximize every student’s learning and growth. Today, we create quality assessments and help teachers and educational leaders use data to differentiate instruction and inform organizational planning.
Our research-based core lets us do what’s driven us from the beginning: give educators tools proven to help them make a difference. It also allows us to give powerful, in-depth information to communities, researchers, and policymakers debating policies and practices that affect students.
As a mission-based organization, we contribute to broader conversations about how communities can support student-centric learning. We believe research-based assessment data and data-informed professional development help educators accelerate every child’s academic growth and achievement.
Our Core Activities
Helping to create smarter, more responsive educational systems
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Computer adaptive assessments developed and maintained using rigorous research-based psychometric practices
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Original studies that explore the impact of educational programs and policies on students, teachers, and school systems as well as those that seek to improve measurement and assessment
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Collaboration with think tanks, school districts, universities, and foundations
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Data awards to student researchers and scholars
Assessments that help drive decision making
Discover assessments rooted in research
Our computer adaptive assessments help educators answer a crucial question: Are my students learning? By delivering precise, real-time information about every student’s learning triumphs and challenges, we set educators—and students—up for success.
