CEED has partnered with NORC at the University of Chicago, on a contract from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to evaluate their Playful Learning Institute (PLI).

PLI is a pilot initiative in 2023-2024 to expand playful learning practices in prekindergarten through third grade classrooms in Massachusetts. Five school districts across the state are participating in the institute which includes asynchronous online training, in-person professional development and regular coaching.  The CEED and NORC evaluation team is working closely with DESE to evaluate the initiative with a focus on understanding how playful learning supports equitable learning experiences in the early grades and how the PLI can help shift mindsets and increase playful learning practices. Research activities include: baseline surveys prior to the institute and surveys at the end of the institute year for teachers, administrators and staff; focus groups for teachers, administrators, staff, and coaches; reviews of coaching logs; and classroom observations.