Building a More Effective, Equitable, and Compassionate Educational System: The Role of Direct Instruction

In a recent book, Anthony Biglan describes how strong social research can be used to build a compassionate and more caring society that promotes the well-being of all. This article asserts that a strong educational system needs to be part of this transformation and that widespread use of Direct Instruction (DI) could be key in the process. Analysis of the underlying theory, development, and use of DI describes the way it is based on careful developmental research. It promotes effective and efficient learning while embodying respect for students and teachers. The results of a recent large meta-analysis of research on DI’s effectiveness show it is more effective than other educational approaches, with effect sizes that surpass the effect associated with the difference in achievement of students from lower income and other homes. Alternative approaches to educational change are reviewed and it is suggested that DI is a more effective and efficient method of improving student success. Powerful actors within the educational establishment have expressed opposition to DI and have worked to hide evidence of its effectiveness. This paper identifies other social actors who could work together to counter the resistance to DI and build an educational system that promotes the well-being of all.