Research Services at CELL

Research and Evaluation services

At the Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning (CELL), research and evaluation are central to our commitment to transforming education and improving student outcomes. We use data to inform practice, guide innovation, and measure the impact of programs across Indiana and beyond. With a deep understanding of Indiana’s shifting education policy landscape, CELL brings critical context to our work—ensuring that research is not only rigorous, but also relevant and actionable for schools.

CELL offers a variety of services to meet the needs of schools, districts, higher education institutions, and other organizations, including research practice partnerships, policy studies, program evaluation, and needs assessments.

Research Practice Partnerships

Research-Practice Partnerships (RPPs) are long-term, collaborative relationships between researchers and educators aimed at improving educational outcomes. These partnerships focus on co-developing research questions, using data to inform practice, and producing actionable insights that directly support schools and students. At CELL, we can help schools, districts, and other organizations bridge the gap between research and real-world implementation, ensuring that evidence-based strategies are both relevant and effective in Indiana’s educational landscape.

Policy Studies

Education policy studies help policymakers understand both the immediate and long-term implications of educational policies on learners, educators, and institutions. At CELL, we can help policymakers at the local and state levels understand how policies and practices shape the quality and effectiveness of Indiana’s education systems across diverse. Our evidence-based policy studies employ a range of rigorous research methods—including detailed descriptive analyses, quasi-experimental designs, and randomized controlled trials—to provide insights that inform decision-making and help ensure all learners have the opportunity to succeed.

Program Evaluation

Program evaluation enables policymakers and practitioners to assess the success of initiatives and make data-informed decisions to improve student achievement. At CELL, we apply rigorous quantitative and qualitative methods to evaluate the impact of educational programs and initiatives on teaching and learning. Through systematic measurement of outcomes and processes, we provide funders, educators, and policymakers with valuable insights into what works, for whom, and how. 

Needs Assessment

Needs assessment services play a crucial role in helping policymakers, administrators, and educators recognize areas in need of improvement and identify programs and services to address them. At CELL, we collaborate with stakeholders to systematically gather and analyze information to identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities. Our needs assessments provide a strong foundation for effective planning, program development, and resource allocation and can support the development of grant proposals, policy initiatives, or targeted interventions.

Contact Our Team

Interested in exploring how CELL can support your school through research and evaluation or a research-practice partnership? Contact our team today!