Education Research Could Improve Schools, But Probably Won’t

By Ronald A. Wolk

In my idealistic days 25 years ago, I believed that education research would lead us to the promised land of successful schools and high student achievement.

Many folks still believe that, including the president of the United States, who insists he is determined to make education an “evidence-based field,” “a scientifically based practice.” (Despite the fact that he has long denied global warming, opposes embryonic-stem-cell research, and wants to include the teaching of “intelligent design” alongside evolution in schools.)

As much as I hate to say it—and I truly hope I am wrong—I no longer believe...