SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:
Under direction of the Supervisor of Applied Research, conducts and designs scientific research studies that seek to solve practical educational problems. Conducts outcome evaluations of major educational programs, instructional initiatives and educational policies. Analyzes large amounts of data using qualitative and quantitative methods. Communicates research findings in clear and effective manners to a range of educational audiences in written (formal reports) and presentation formats. Serves as an expert resource to other offices within the school system on research and evaluation methodology, survey development, student test score analysis and interpretation.

CERTIFICATE LICENSE:
NA

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:
Under direction of the Supervisor of Applied Research, conducts and designs scientific research studies that seek to solve practical educational problems. Conducts outcome evaluations of major educational programs, instructional initiatives and educational policies. Analyzes large amounts of data using qualitative and quantitative methods. Communicates research findings in clear and effective manners to a range of educational audiences in written (formal reports) and presentation formats. Serves as an expert resource to other offices within the school system on research and evaluation methodology, survey development, student test score analysis and interpretation.

CERTIFICATE LICENSE:
NA

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:
Extensive knowledge of social science research and evaluation methodology and advanced statistics using statistical software, such as SPSS; Extensive knowledge of educational program evaluations, inferential statistics, experimental and quasi-experimental designs. Skill to build large and complex data files using syntax data editor. Thorough knowledge of the MCPS local tests, Maryland state-mandated testing program, and national testing programs. Knowledge of current educational research, design, statistics, and evaluation in a wide variety of areas and settings. Ability to work efficiently and effectively in a fast-paced work environment and under tight deadlines. Excellent ability to communicate, both written and orally, technical information in a way that is understandable to people without technical training. Ability to work effectively with internal and external staff from various parts of a school system and/or community. Excellent human relations skills.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, and EXPERIENCE:
Masters degree (Doctorate preferred) from an accredited college or university in a social science area such as educational measurement and evaluation, psychology, sociology, etc. Intensive course work in research methodology, applied statistics, measurement; and/or evaluation is required. Two years or more of experience with research design, statistics, and evaluation of educational programs in a public school system is required.