The COVID-19 pandemic caused enormous disruptions to the American education system, calling into question some long-held beliefs about teaching and learning. Despite the challenges associated with the sudden shift to virtual and hybrid learning, several school systems have emerged with new understandings about how to strengthen instruction. The Center for Public Research and Leadership (CPRL) at Columbia University set out to understand these dynamics and identify opportunities, if any, to improve academic outcomes going forward. Researchers found that during the pandemic, families became key players as a pillar in their child’s education in positive ways that can be replicated. These efforts were most successful when schools were using high-quality instructional materials that allowed better coordination between teachers and families.
Program: Education
