When Can You Trust the Experts?

This insightful book helps educators discern reliable educational practices from those lacking evidence. When Can You Trust the Experts? is a guide for informed decision-making.

In When Can You Trust the Experts?, Dan Willingham provides a straightforward guide for educators, parents, and administrators navigating the overwhelming landscape of educational resources. Each year, a multitude of new software, games, workbooks, and professional development programs flood the market, all claiming to be grounded in the latest research. While some of these offerings are indeed backed by solid scientific principles, many others are not, often relying on exaggerated claims to attract attention and funding. This book aims to empower readers with the tools necessary to distinguish between reliable educational practices and those that lack substantial evidence.

Willingham, a respected thought leader in the field, understands that not everyone has an extensive background in statistics or research methodology. Therefore, he distills complex ideas into clear, actionable principles that can be easily understood and applied. By doing so, When Can You Trust the Experts? serves as a valuable resource for those who want to make informed decisions about the educational tools they choose to implement. The book encourages critical thinking and skepticism in a landscape often filled with hype and misinformation.

With a blend of engaging writing and practical advice, Willingham invites readers to question the validity of the educational products they encounter. His insights not only help in identifying scientifically valid approaches but also foster a deeper understanding of what constitutes effective education. This book is essential for anyone involved in education who seeks to cut through the noise and make choices that truly benefit students.