The U.S. Department of Education has reorganized itself to focus more attention and resources upon scientifically based research and education programs with proven results. Though many believe this new focus will ultimately boost student achievement, some education experts are cautioning reformers to learn from mistakes of the past. In a speech given at the Office of Innovation and Improvement's recent Innovations in Education conference, Diane Ravitch, former Assistant Secretary for education research and improvement, challenged reformers in the fledgling OII to take a hard look at what gets called "innovative." All too often, she contends, these "innovations" are nothing more than failed programs from the past that have been dusted off and given new life.
"Does education really need more innovation in the age of scientifically based research?," presented by Diane Ravitch at the Innovations in Education conference, Harvard University, April 15, 2003