Research | K12Outreach | Michigan State University

Research

WHAT WE DO

Turning Evidence Into Action

At MSU's Office of K-12 Outreach, research is something we both produce and put to work. Our team conducts studies, evaluates programs and initiatives, and draws on research from MSU and beyond to help educators and education leaders understand what's happening and make informed decisions.

What makes our approach different is the experience we bring to that work. Having served in classrooms, schools, and district leadership, our team understands that findings have to make sense in the settings where they're used. We work alongside partners to connect evidence with their experiences, priorities, and day-to-day realities.

MSU Office of K-12 Outreach's four research capabilities: Applied Research, Data and Evaluation, Needs Assessment, and Research Into Practice, supporting evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement in education.

RESEARCH IN PRACTICE

What Research Looks Like in Our Work

Listening to Educators

Through interviews, surveys, and listening sessions, we learn directly from educators and leaders about their experiences, challenges, and priorities. Their perspectives help shape our research and the support we provide.

Using Data to Guide Improvement

We help partners make sense of their data, understand trends, and identify areas that need attention. Together, we use those insights to ask better questions, make informed decisions, and plan practical next steps.

Supporting Program Evaluation

We evaluate programs and initiatives to understand what's working, where adjustments may be needed, and what can be learned. Our findings help partners assess progress, strengthen their efforts, and plan for the future.

Have a Question Research Could Help Answer?

Whether you're exploring a new initiative, evaluating an existing program, or trying to better understand a challenge, we'd welcome the opportunity to learn more. Our team can help you identify useful evidence, make sense of findings, and consider what comes next.

Let's Connect

Research That Works in Real Schools

WHAT WE DO

Turning Evidence Into Action

RESEARCH IN PRACTICE

What Research Looks Like in Our Work

Listening to Educators

Using Data to Guide Improvement

Supporting Program Evaluation

Have a Question Research Could Help Answer?

Research That Works in Real Schools

WHAT WE DO

Turning Evidence Into Action

RESEARCH IN PRACTICE

What Research Looks Like in Our Work

Listening to Educators

Using Data to Guide Improvement

Supporting Program Evaluation

Have a Question Research Could Help Answer?