Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI): Improving Mathematics and Science Achievement in Upper-Elementary and Middle Schools
About the Intervention
Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI) is a two-year intervention intended to better align classroom practices with national and statewide teaching standards-and ultimately to improve student achievement-by providing professional development, access to materials and technology, and in-school support for teachers. AMSTI's professional development focuses on changing teacher content knowledge. AMSTI's emphasis on teaching methods that promote active learning in the classroom is designed to motivate and engage students in learning. AMSTI has three components: professional development, program materials, technology, and other resources, and in-school supports. The professional development component includes 10 days of summer training and follow-up training during the school year. The program materials, technology, and other resources component includes access to materials and manipulatives needed to deliver hands-on, inquiry-based instruction. The in-school supports component includes on-site mentoring to help teachers implement lessons throughout the school year.
Statistical Findings
Positive effect on math problem solving achievement after one year
No effect on science achievement after one year
Positive effect on active learning instructional strategies in math classrooms after one year
Positive effect on active learning instructional strategies in science classrooms after one year
Positive effect on math problem solving achievement after two years
Positive effect on science achievement after two years
Positive effect on reading achievement after one year
No effect on teacher content knowledge in math after one year
No effect on teacher content knowledge in science after one year
Positive effect on student engagement in math classrooms after one year
Positive effect on student engagement in science classrooms after one year
More Intervention Details
Focus Areas
N/APrograms & Services
General EducationDelivery Methods
Face-to-FaceDisability Support
N/ATarget Groups
Student(s), Teachers/Instructional TeamsSource
Andrew P., J., Denis, N., Herb, T., Jenna L., Z., Laura Feagans, G., Pamela B., F. & Steve, B. (2012). Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI). Final Report. NCEE 2012-4008 (ED529587). ERIC. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED529587.pdf.
Study Demographics
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Participant Gender
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Other Participant Characteristics
Geographical Setting
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