Resources

Empowering educators with research, tools, and insights to enhance educational practices and outcomes

Research & Publications

Explore our research findings and publications that drive better educational outcomes through data-informed practices.

A Landscape Analysis of Civic and Community Engagement in Community Colleges

Kisker, Carrie; Cutler White, Carol; King, Stephanie; Johnson, Janet; and Bowlin, Will (2025). College of Education (CoE) Publications. 103.

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Social Emotional Learning Survey and Observation Tools for STEM Project-Based Learning

Johnson, J., & Alvarez, J. (2024). Social Emotional Learning Survey and Observation Tools for STEM Project-Based Learning: Technical Document. Edstar Analytics, Inc.

This technical document provides educators with practical tools for measuring social-emotional learning outcomes in STEM project-based learning environments.

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Educational Video Resources

Free video playlists are designed to enhance teaching skills and support professional development.

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Grant Writing

Essential strategies for successful educational grant proposals

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Data Analysis

Making sense of educational data for better decision-making

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Excel Skills

From basics to advanced techniques for educational data

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High Stakes Testing

Math concepts and strategies for test preparation success

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Featured: High Stakes Testing Mathematics

These short lessons fill gaps in understanding of basic mathematical concepts. Based on multi-year research with college algebra students and test preparation, our straightforward explanations and concrete examples have resulted in greater than 90% pass rates. Many students have gone on to succeed in math-intensive majors.

Books

Our books empower educators and parents with insights and strategies for navigating the evolving landscape of education. Watch our free video overviews below.

Mismatched: How America’s Educational System Fails to Prepare Students for Today’s Workforce

In this groundbreaking analysis, Dr. Janet Johnson draws on her 30 years of educational research to expose the critical disconnect between what students learn in school and what employers need in the modern workforce. Through comprehensive data analysis and real-world case studies, “Mismatched” offers practical solutions for bridging this gap and preparing students for success in the 21st century economy.

Mismatched Book Cover

Empowered Advocacy: Navigating Education and Opportunity in North Carolina

A Guide for Parents of High Schoolers to Maximizing Learning and Future Success

This concise guide helps parents navigate their high school children’s educational landscape. It decodes complex educational data, clarifies math course options, and explains the differences between graduation requirements and college admission criteria.

  • Understand test results and educational data
  • Navigate high school math course placement
  • Advocate for equitable access to rigorous courses
  • Bridge the gap between graduation and college readiness
Empowered Advocacy Book Cover

A Journey from Historical Practices to Data Empowerment

This insightful book examines the evolving role of cultural, technological, and policy changes in shaping education. It traces the journey from fixed to growth mindsets and discusses how data has transformed educational strategies, particularly emphasizing mathematics education and access to rigorous coursework.

By analyzing past practices it provides contextual understanding of current educational standards and strategies tailored to North Carolina. Essential reading for educators navigating the complexities of modern education.

A Journey from Historical Practices to Data Empowerment Book Cover

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