ESSA Tier 4 Foundational Research

Learning Design and Research Base for Edmentum Courseware

Full Report
Logic Model and Evidence
WEBD 40 ESSA Courseware Learning Deasign Tier 4

Today’s educational landscape demands flexible, research-based solutions that engage students while developing both academic knowledge and the durable skills needed for lifelong success. Courseware stands at this intersection, providing a comprehensive digital learning environment built on six powerful learning design principles—with particular emphasis on active, engaging learning. This transforms passive content consumption into dynamic, student-centered experiences that boost motivation and achievement, alongside metacognitive strategies that foster student agency, self-awareness, and critical thinking skills that extend well beyond the classroom. By intentionally designing each course element to support these principles, Courseware transforms how students experience learning, enabling them to become architects of their own educational journeys.

The urgent need to reimagine secondary education cannot be overstated. As student needs evolve and traditional approaches fall short for many learners, Courseware’s research-backed design creates multiple pathways to success. Whether providing credit recovery opportunities, accommodating flexible learning models, or personalizing the educational experience for each student’s unique needs, Courseware delivers results. Third-party validated research confirms what thousands of educators already know: When leveraging Courseware's thoughtful design and implementation, students demonstrate measurable gains in academic achievement, attendance, and engagement. 

This is not simply digital learning; it is learning science in action, empowering educators with the tools they need to meet diverse learners exactly where they are while preparing them for wherever they hope to go.

This paper discusses:

  • the importance of reimagining secondary education,
  • Courseware’s six research-backed learning design principles that drive student achievement and support effective instruction, and,
  • Courseware’s ability to meet needs in versatile implementations across diverse educational settings.

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