Is our education system actually backed by research? | Matthew Courtney | TEDxGainesville

Beneath the surface of many educational initiatives lies a seldom-asked but crucial question: 'Does this thing even work?' Through the individual adoption of a professional responsibility to use research to inform decisions, the education profession can make the shift towards a system where crucial decisions are guided by rigorous evidence over tradition, intuition, and strong opinions. This approach will empower educators at every level to re-take ownership of their profession and accelerate student achievement like never before. Dr. Matthew B. Courtney is a passionate advocate for education and a specialist in evidence-informed school improvement. He began his career as a music educator before moving on to leadership roles within the nonprofit, higher education, and state government sectors. Dr. Courtney is a published researcher whose work focuses on school improvement.
As the founder of Courtney Consulting LLC, he’s advised schools on leveraging evidence-based decision-making to accelerate student achievement. His impact extends beyond students and schools, influencing state-wide educational policies. Dr. Courtney's expertise and dedication continue to bridge gaps in education, fostering progress and development in diverse communities. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@LeahMarcum77]

I am so thankful to have the opportunity to partner with Dr. Courtney to supporting educators across the state of Kentucky in using evidence-based practices!

[@bradoliver5284]

Dr. Courtney's TED Talk points out that transformation in schools is not an accident, but rather the direct result of understanding the importance of evidenced-informed decision-making. Today's educator needs to be well-versed in the educational research process. Schools cannot effectively meet the needs of their students unless they first know that the strategic interventions being deployed (often in the name of improvement) have an evidence-base demonstrating that the school's choice of intervention actually works. Thank you, Dr. Courtney, for a great TED Talk and for your efforts to challenge the status quo.

[@juettwells1541]

Excellent discussion around the importance of evidence-based decision-making in our educational system. Dr. Courtney, your passion for research and education is contagious. I have learned so much from you, and I am blessed to have you as a colleague and friend. So proud of you!

[@KellyFoster-xc4ll]

Great work Dr. Courtney! Congratulations!

[@backinerinblack]

Dr. Courtney makes great points here! Analyzing data and using that analysis to drive our decisions is the best way to see substantial growth and meaningful improvement!

[@JamesCarrier-cj9oc]

Very Interesting discussion showing that we need to invest time and effort into evidence-based practices to move our educational system further along. Keep the work moving!

[@WanettaMorrow]

Compelling discussion by Dr. Matthew Courtney that reminds all of us that it is our responsibility to use evidence-based research when making decisions in our schools and classrooms. I urge you to listen to this excellent presentation and consider partnering with Dr. Courtney!

[@cristelojuarez5658]

This was great Dr. Courtney! I especially like the concept of uniting research and practice. Thank you.

[@davidcook6409]

My good friend, Matthew Courtney is a champion of building a stronger learning system through creating evidence-based classrooms built on research. Listen to this intently and then maybe connect with Matthew to help your school with evidence-based practice.

[@charlie-s-anger]

I think another thing to consider with all of this is that as the generations change so should techniques and tools. I couldn't imagine trying to teach a kid of this generation in the way I was taught 30 years ago. Just completely different.

[@mehdidouinine]

He makes a great point around the 5:30 mark. It's funny how when something becomes it's own institution it just stops serving the initial thing it was set up for.

[@theauthenticiamnow]

some really fantastic ideas here!

[@andrewfarason]

Yeah it must be so frustrating to be a teacher and know that what they have to teach doesn't have any practical application or isn't even landing with the kids in the way whoever developed it thought it would

[@kexinan]

Surely some of that research goes towards helping train teachers and design the curriculum though?

[@makeitso1017]

I'm just curious as to why anyone would have thought the Dare program was going to work? Honestly must have been dreamt up by someone who didn't have kids and had never done drugs lol

[@garymacdonald5370]

I don't need to watch this to know the answer is no. The education system is effed. Has been for decades.

[@erickjans]

Oh my a billion dollars a year on the dare program is kinda crazy. Drvg abuse has never been about knowledge like everyone _knows_ how bad drugs are...

[@noraaransey8044]

I’m so proud of my friend, Matthew Courtney and this amazing Ted Talk! He has helped me look at my own practice and continually grow! 🫶🏽