We are home to 14 research and outreach units. Our faculty members in these units have a reputation for conducting innovative work in school reform, assessment, school-wide discipline and behavior management, positive youth development, family interventions, special education, early intervention, and culturally responsive educational practices. These programs help children and families of all ages—from infants and toddlers to adolescents and young adults. The work they do is making a difference in Oregon, across the country, and around the world.
Our research culture is field-leading and highly influential with a long tradition of translating research into effective models, methods, and measures that improve lives.
in FY26
Gina Biancarosa leads the Literacy Screeners for Alaska Indigenous Languages project, which is developing and validating early literacy screeners designed to determine levels of necessary instructional support in reading for kindergarten through fifth grade in up to ten of the 23 Alaska Native languages.
Impact and Outcomes
We are the highest-ranked academic unit at the University of Oregon, due largely to a decades-long record of national and international research and development in special education, counseling psychology, educational leadership, and school psychology. Our research culture is unique and highly influential because our faculty have a long tradition of translating research into effective models, methods, and measures that improve lives.
Our innovations have an enduring impact in Oregon and across the nation.
Recognized for decades of life-changing research, the College of Education fosters a culture of inquiry that empowers students to contribute to impactful solutions that advance equity, improve learning outcomes, and strengthen communities.
Lauren Berny
As a doctoral student, Lauren received a prestigious R36 dissertation grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Strengthening connections between research and practice in K-12 education
The HEDCO Institute for Evidence-Based Educational Practice aims to impact future generations by supporting today’s educators. Using the latest tools and methods to conduct rigorous evidence syntheses that meet the rapid decision-making needs of education leaders, the HEDCO Institute translates the findings from existing research, providing education leaders with trustworthy information to support the implementation of evidence-based practices, and promoting healthy students and schools.
Research News
July 27, 2026
How can schools support early learners struggling with math?
The latest HEDCO Institute report features research from Gena Nelson, PhD, who synthesized the highest-quality evidence on tutoring for students in PreK through 1st grade. Gena and her research colleagues found that targeted, intensive math support can produce large gains in math achievement for young learners later in life.
July 24, 2026
FWISD is changing how it teaches English learners
That does not mean a campus-based model cannot serve students well, said Ilana Umansky, PhD, a University of Oregon professor whose research focuses on students who are immigrants, multilingual and classified as English learners.
July 14, 2026
Erin Chaparro launch leader for inaugural MTSS research journal
Associate Research Professor Erin Chaparro, PhD, has been named the Founding Co-Editor and launch leader of the newly established Journal of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), sponsored by the International MTSS Association.
July 10, 2026
Do NYC schools need a redistribution of PTA wealth?
Claire Mackevicius, PhD, assistant professor of education policy and equity in the College of Education, serves on the working group that manages PTAlink, a resource hub for PTAs. Her research uses mixed methods to examine gaps between education policy goals and outcomes, with a focus on resource distribution in K–12 schools.