Defining Evidence-Based Learning Through Scientific Research

In this episode of Author Chats, we hear from Michael Petrilli, author of Follow the Science to School: Evidenced-Based Practices For Elementary Education, published by John Catt Educational. 

Follow the Science to School is written with the education industry in mind. The book takes a scientific approach to understanding curriculum and research. One interesting topic the book discusses is somewhat of a weighted term in the education system: “evidenced-based practices.” This conversation with Michael gets at the heart of his definition of evidence-based practices and what is currently holding back our system from thriving in a more scientifically backed model. 

“One thing to get clear is: what do we mean by ‘the evidence.’ In this book, we say that we should have a high bar for what it takes to be evidence-based, but we shouldn’t be unrealistic… the most hopeful approaches involve taking the science and then imbed that science into quality instructional materials.” 

From engaging in the politics of education to staying on track with the science of learning, the heart of this conversation concerns understanding what works in education. Michael has spent his life as an education writer and researcher, and in that time, he has formed an excellent view of the systems and modes of operation that serve education positively and negatively. In providing an evidence based approach in his work, Michael hopes that this book will serve as a path for educators to follow and a system they can use to shape the future of learning. 

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