To the Editor:
I read with great interest your coverage of product-effectiveness research, in “Big-Name Companies Feature Larger-Impact Research Efforts” (April 24, 2013). It is clear that school buyers of educational innovations and funders of those efforts will increasingly demand evidence of efficacy. As with any other product or service, buyers want “proof” before buying.
I do, however, take issue with the contention in the article that “serious efficacy studies can start as high as $150,000.” While some studies cost six figures, the vast majority of efficacy research conducted is well under $100,000.
A technically sound efficacy study that can pass muster in the scientific community can be executed for far less than the article suggests.
Scott Elliot
President
SEG Measurement
New Hope, Pa.
