WWC | Primary Science Review Protocol

Large numbers of students lack proficiency in science, and students from different ethnic and socioeconomic groups show disparities in science achievement. Science knowledge and skills are important for both academic and workplace success, and a number of interventions aim to improve student science achievement. This review focuses on science interventions used in kindergarten through grade 8 and designed to affect students’ science achievement.

The following research questions guide this review:

Which interventions are effective at increasing the learning of science content, processes, and skills for students in kindergarten through grade 8?
Are some primary science interventions more effective for certain types of students, particularly those who are members of traditionally underrepresented groups in science?

Protocol Details

Version: 4.0
Released: March 2019

Version: 2.0
Released: February 2012

What is a Protocol?

A review protocol defines the scope of a systematic review. Developed with substantive experts, the protocol defines the parameters for the review, including the research, populations, settings, and outcomes. The protocol also specifies details of the literature search and any topic-specific applications of the design standards.

Protocol versions reflect the version of WWC standards in effect when the protocol was released. Protocol versions that predate the current version of the WWC standards handbook can be used to identify acceptable outcome domains for review within a given topic. The current WWC standards are used to guide the review of studies with acceptable outcomes.