Role Summary:

Instruction Partners is looking for a Field Researcher to serve as a contractor for a high-priority, short-term project. The primary objective of this engagement is to provide a comprehensive, evidence-based strategic briefing on the future of data-driven instruction (DDI) and its intersection with emerging technologies, particularly AI, in K–12 education.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned educational researcher or consultant with a deep understanding of instructional best practices, data systems, and the K–12 landscape. This individual will be responsible for conducting a multi-faceted research project that combines a literature review, stakeholder interviews, internal data analysis, and market mapping to produce actionable recommendations for Instruction Partners' service and product development.

Scope of Work:

• The scope of services includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Literature Review & Synthesis (40-50 hours)
  • Conduct a comprehensive lit review of current DDI research, models, and implementation frameworks in K–12 education.
  • Include current and emerging research on the use of AI in education,
  • Analyze intersections between DDI and instructional leadership, equity, and student-centered learning.
    
• Field Interviews & Stakeholder Insight Collection (50-60 hours)
  • Design and execute structured interviews and/or focus groups with a range of stakeholders, including system leaders, school leaders, teachers, researchers, and product developers.
  • Investigate how stakeholders perceive and are adopting data-driven instruction practices and AI-enabled supports.
    
• Partner Practice Analysis (35-45 hours)
  • Review and synthesize current Instruction Partners’ partner data on DDI practices within ERI, MMI, and current direct partners.
  • Document promising practices and challenges in how partners are engaging with data to inform instruction and continuous improvement.
    
• Product & Tool Landscape Mapping (30-40 hours)
  • Map out key external DDI tools, platforms, and models—including both curriculum-embedded and standalone solutions.
  • Assess use cases, equity considerations, and alignment with best practices.
    
• Summative Recommendations & Direction Setting (45-55 hours)
  • Produce a strategic briefing for internal leadership that synthesizes insights and offers a recommended direction for Instruction Partners’ DDI-related service or product development.
  • Offer clear recommendations on the future of DDI support, including the strategic integration of AI-enabled approaches.
  • Present findings in accessible, visual, and actionable formats.

Compensation:

1. The agreement covers an anticipated 245 hours
2. The contractor will be compensated at a rate of $150 per hour.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a contractor, consultant, or senior researcher in the education sector, with a focus on K–12 instruction, technology, and/or data analysis.
• Demonstrated expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, including designing and conducting interviews, focus groups, and synthesizing diverse data sources.
• Deep knowledge of data-driven instruction models and frameworks, as well as an understanding of the current landscape of AI in education.
• Exceptional analytical and synthesis skills, with the ability to distill complex information into clear, compelling, and actionable insights for a leadership audience.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a track record of producing high-quality reports and presentations.
• A strong commitment to equity and student-centered learning is essential.

Our Mission:

We strengthen instructional leadership in schools, school systems, and states to ensure teachers have the support they need to improve learning experiences and learning outcomes for students - with attention to students of color, students experiencing poverty, multilingual learners, and students with disabilities.

Our Vision:

All students experience an excellent education that prepares them to contribute to their community, achieve economic security, and pursue their dreams.