Evaluating math recovery: Assessing the causal impact of a diagnostic tutoring program on student achievement

Mathematics Recovery (MR) is designed to identify first graders who are struggling in mathematics and provide them with intensive one-to-one tutoring. We report findings from a 2-year evaluation of MR conducted in 20 elementary schools across five districts in two states. The design allowed for the estimation of the counterfactual growth trajectory based on those students randomly assigned either to a tutoring cohort with a delayed start or to a wait list. Results demonstrate strong end of first grade effects on a diagnostic measure developed by MR and weak to moderate effects (effect size, .15–.30) on measures administered by external evaluators. By the end of second grade, no significant effects were found on any measures. Practical and research implications are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Authors citation
Smith, T. M., Cobb, P., Farran, D. C., Cordray, D. S., & Munter, C.
Publication
American Educational Research Journal, 50(2), 397–428
Year of Study
2013
Subject
Math
Program Evaluated
Math Recovery
Tutor Type
Teacher
Duration
1 year
Sample size
775
Grade Level(s)
1st Grade
Student-Tutor Ratio
1
Effect Size
0.24
Study Design
Quasi-experimental
Smith, T. M., Cobb, P., Farran, D. C., Cordray, D. S., & Munter, C. (2013). Evaluating math recovery: Assessing the causal impact of a diagnostic tutoring program on student achievement. American Educational Research Journal, 50(2), 397–428. https://doi.org/10.3102/0002831212469045