WCER Working Papers
The WCER Working Paper Series shares research in progress, early findings, and methodological developments from WCER researchers. These papers are intended to support timely dissemination and encourage discussion among researchers, practitioners, and policymakers.
This series reflects WCER’s commitment to advancing knowledge and supporting evidence-informed decision making.
WCER accepts submissions from UW–Madison researchers with a connection to the WCER mission.
Browse the WCER working papers below, dating back to 2020, covering a wide range of topics investigated by WCER researchers and others at UW–Madison advancing education research.
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Equality of Educational Opportunity: A 40-Year Retrospective
Authors: Adam Gamoran and Daniel A. Long December 2006, 27 pp. Abstract: Equality of Educational Opportunity, the 1966 landmark study by James Coleman and colleagues, persists as a seminal source for continuing research on schools and student achievement. Three…
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Performance Pay System Preferences of Students Preparing to be Teachers
Author: Anthony Milanowski October 2006, 21 pp. Abstract: Traditionally, U.S. K–12 teachers have expressed little support for performance-based pay. This could be due to negative experiences with subjective performance evaluation, changing district priorities, or recurring budget crises. Alternatively, the…
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The Teacher Sense of Efficacy Scale: Validation Evidence and Behavioral Prediction
Authors: Herbert G. Heneman III, Steven Kimball, and Anthony Milanowski October 2006, 21 pp. Abstract: This study explores the construct validity of the Teacher Sense of Efficacy Scale (TSES) developed by Tschannen-Moran and Hoy (2001). The psychometric properties of…
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To Disagree, We Must Also Agree: How Intersubjectivity Structures and Perpetuates Discourse in a Mathematics Classroom
Authors: Mitchell J. Nathan, Billie Eilam, Suyeon Kim October 2006, 42 pp. Abstract: Learning in a socially mediated context like a classroom places emphasis on the ability of learners to communicate their ideas to others and to achieve shared…
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Can Brain Research and Computers Improve Literacy? A Randomized Field Trial of the Fast ForWord Language Computer-Based Training Program
Authors: Geoffrey D. Borman and James Benson August 2006, 28 pp. Abstract: This paper describes an independent assessment of the Fast ForWord Language computer-based training program developed by the Scientific Learning Corporation. Previous laboratory research involving children with language-based…
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A Distributed Leadership Perspective on How Leaders Use Artifacts to Create Professional Community in Schools
Author: Richard Halverson Abstract: This paper explores a distributed leadership perspective on how leaders create contexts that build and support professional communities in schools. It is argued that professional community results from intentional coordination of social interaction among teachers…
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Boolean Classes and Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Mitchell J. Nathan and Kristi Jackson April 2006, 11 pp. Abstract: The prominent role of Boolean classes in qualitative data analysis software is viewed by some as an encroachment of logical positivism on qualitative research methodology. We articulate…
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What Gesture and Speech Reveal About Students’ Interpretations of Cartesian Graphs: Perceptions Can Bound Thinking
Authors: Mitchell J. Nathan and Kristen N. Bieda March 2006, 13 pp. Abstract: This study investigates middle school mathematics students’ views and interpretations of graphical representations as they use graphs to answer algebraic questions — specifically, questions that require…
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Longitudinal Data Systems to Support Data-Informed Decision Making: A Tri-State Partnership Between Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin
Authors: Christopher A. Thorn and Robert H. Meyer March 2006, 10 pp. Abstract: The U.S. Department of Education recently held a competition for grants to support states in their efforts to build longitudinal data systems to track and analyze…
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Rethinking Formalisms in Formal Education
Author: Mitchell J. Nathan December 2005, 16 pp. Abstract: In this paper, I explore two beliefs about learning and teaching that I argue are prevalent among educators. The first is the belief that subject matter expertise is sufficient for…
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Browse more publications from WCER researchers, including journal articles, books, and chapters focused on evidence-based education research.
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