Research-Based vs. Evidence-Based Reading Programs
Updated: Dec 26, 2022
The terms "research-based" and "evidence-based" are often used interchangeably to refer to programs or interventions that are supported by research evidence. In general, a research-based program or intervention is one that is based on findings from research studies, while an evidence-based program or intervention is one that has been shown through scientific research to be effective in achieving its intended goals.
A research-based reading program is a program that is designed to teach reading skills and strategies to students and is based on research findings about how people learn to read. These programs typically use a variety of instructional methods and materials, such as phonics, phonemic awareness, and comprehension strategies, to help students become proficient readers. Research-based reading programs are often used in schools and other educational settings to help students improve their reading skills and achieve academic success. They are designed to be effective and efficient, and they typically involve ongoing assessment and evaluation to ensure that students are making progress and receiving the support they need to succeed.
An evidence-based reading program is a program that is designed to teach reading skills and strategies to students and is based on evidence from research studies. This means that the program has been shown through scientific research to be effective in helping students learn to read or improve their reading skills. Evidence-based reading programs are typically supported by a strong body of research that has been conducted using rigorous scientific methods and has demonstrated their effectiveness in improving reading outcomes for students. These programs may use a variety of instructional methods and materials, such as phonics, phonemic awareness, and comprehension strategies, to help students become proficient readers. Evidence-based reading programs are often used in schools and other educational settings to help students achieve academic success and improve their reading skills.
Both research-based and evidence-based programs rely on research findings to inform their design and implementation. However, evidence-based programs are typically more rigorously tested and have a stronger body of research supporting their effectiveness. They may have been tested in multiple studies using rigorous scientific methods, and the results of these studies have been consistently positive in demonstrating the program's effectiveness. In contrast, research-based programs may be based on a smaller body of research or may not have been as rigorously tested.
There are several ways you can determine if a reading program is research-based or evidence-based:
Look for information about the research that has been conducted on the program. Research-based programs should be able to provide information about the research that has been conducted on their effectiveness. Evidence-based programs should be able to provide information about the research studies that have been conducted using rigorous scientific methods to demonstrate their effectiveness.
Check for references or citations. Research-based and evidence-based programs should be able to provide references or citations to the research that supports their effectiveness. You can use these references to look up more information about the research and how it was conducted.
Look for information about how the program was developed. Research-based and evidence-based programs should be able to provide information about how they were developed and how they were tested and evaluated to ensure their effectiveness.
Ask about the program's track record. Research-based and evidence-based programs should be able to provide information about their track record and how they have been successful in helping students improve their reading skills.
Consult with experts in the field. If you are unsure about a reading program's research or evidence base, you can consult with experts in the field of reading education or ask for recommendations from educators who have experience with different reading programs.
