The term "scientifically based research" (SBR) arises from the 2001 reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, P.L. 107 - 110 (ESEA) popularly referred to as "No Child Left Behind."  Its definition categorizes research than can be utilized in the classroom.

Defining SBR in Law

Public Law 107 - 110, the No Child Left Behind Acto fo 2001, Title IX at 37, "the term 'scientifically based research' -

(A)  means research that involves the application of rigorous, systematic and objective procedures       to obtain reliable and valid knowledge relevant to education activities and programs; and

(B)  includes research that

(i)  employs systematic, empirical methods that draw on observation or experiment;

(ii)  involves rigorous data analyses that are adequate to test the stated hypotheses and justify the general conclusions drawn;

(iii)  relies on measurements or observational methods that provide reliable and valid data across evaluators and observers, across multiple measurements and observations, and across studies by the same or different investigators;

(iv)  is evaluated using experimental or quasi-experimental designs in which individuals, entities, programs or activities are assigned to different conditions and with appropriate controls to evaluate the effects of the condition of interest, with a preference for random-assignment experiments, or other designs to the extent that those designs contain within-condition or across-condition controls;

(v)  ensures that experimental studies are presented in sufficient detail and clarity to allow for replication or, at minimum, offer the opportunity to build systematically on their findings; and

(vi)  has been accepted by a peer-reviewed journal or approved by a panel of experts.

The reports linked on this site were prepared in response to requests from Region 10 school districts to review specific programs and strategies to determine if these programs and strategies were scientifically based as defined by and required by the No Child Left Behind Act.  The reports do not constitute an endorsement of any particular program.  Region 10 does not receive any monetary gain or benefit in reviewing any of the programs or strategies listed.  The reports are intended to be just one source of information that may help teachers, principals, and district personnel in selecting curriculum materials to provide effective instruction.  The information found includes:  extent to which their content, organization, and instructional strategies are consistent with scientifically based research.  This listing is not comprehensive since many potentially useful programs have not yet been reviewed.  Any interested individual or entity may submit information on programs or strategies that are not listed for consideration by Region 10 for inclusion on this list.  Region 10 does not endorse programs, products, practices, or policies.  Any program or intervention strategy that is listed or gets favorable results or a favorable review does not mean that Region 10 “approves” or “endorses” the program or strategy being studied or reviewed.  It simply means that the program or strategy was designed and implemented in a way that allows Region 10 to publicize the results that it has obtained.  Consistent with Region 10’s approach, the data and sources forming the foundation of the results listed are cited.  Region 10 does not verify the accuracy of the information submitted, nor does it assess their qualifications.