Learning What Works

AIR'S PROBLEM-SOLVING CONTINUUM

Key Challenge: Knowing What the Evidence Reveals

Our clients need to know whether their programs, policies, and strategies are making a difference—and what to do next.

  • Is our approach working?
  • What should we improve or change?
  • What can be scaled for greater impact?

What Sets AIR's Approach Apart

Our approach goes beyond producing findings. We generate and share evidence to inform real decisions—combining rigorous methods with practical insight to identify what works, where to improve, and how to scale impact. By integrating quantitative and qualitative data, supporting both rapid-cycle learning and in-depth studies, and translating results into actionable guidance, we ensure evidence is not only credible—but usable.

We do this by:

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Programs and Policies

We help clients build the knowledge and capacity needed to continuously improve programs and deliver better results.

AIR conducted a rigorous large-scale study of Montessori model effectiveness compared with other preschool models. We found that, at the end of kindergarten, Montessori students experienced significantly higher scores in reading, short-term memory, social competence, and executive function.

AIR is actively leading an impact evaluation of the Nigeria for Women Project, which aims to improve women’s livelihood opportunities and facilitate their access to economic markets using a model of women’s affinity groups.

Combining Quantitative and Qualitative Insights

By integrating mixed-method study approaches, AIR examines what is happening and why—leading to more informed decisions and more actionable study findings.

In Côte d’Ivoire, AIR is conducting a mixed-methods evaluation of the Mousso Bara digital literacy app, combining a randomized controlled trial with qualitative research. This approach captures measurable outcomes—such as improvements in literacy—and insights into user experiences. 

The SPARC Center (Special Educator Workforce: A Research Collaborative) combines longitudinal data with qualitative insights to address shortages in the special education workforce and inform policy and practice.

Collecting, Analyzing, and Measuring Survey Data

We collect and analyze survey data to capture experiences, identify trends, and guide improvement.

AIR led survey design, data collection, and analysis of the National Household Education Survey (NHES). We used sampling strategies, predictive modeling, and experimental designs to improve response rates, efficiency, and data quality.

The Power of Us Workforce Survey provided first-of-its-kind national data on youth-serving professionals across career pathways, well-being, and compensation. This survey fills a critical gap in understanding career pathways, professional learning, well-being, and compensation across diverse youth-serving roles.

Conducting Rapid-Cycle Evaluations

AIR creates a continuous learning loop—enabling organizations to make immediate improvements while building the evidence needed for lasting, system-level change and stronger outcomes over time.

The ADAPT-AI project explores uses rapid-cycle methods to refine AI tools that support teachers in developing high-quality science assessments.

AIR will conduct a rapid-cycle evaluation of the Learning Innovations for Teaching of Future-Focused Students (LIFToFFS) model, which is focused on reaching rural communities through training, coaching, and peer networking.

Translating Evidence into Actionable Guidance

We turn complex findings into clear, practical guidance that supports decision-making and implementation.

The rapid expansion of higher education in prison programs has created a need for high-quality materials and resources to address fragmented tools and inconsistent practices across the field. AIR developed toolkits, training academies, and shared guidance to help programs improve implementation, student support, and outcomes.

AIR has partnered with the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to translate related policy into clear guidance, tools, and support. We’ve helped over one million clinicians—especially those in small or solo practices—to successfully reduce administrative burden and implement change.

Systems Change Through Capacity Building and Strategic Planning

We help organizations build the skills, structures, and strategies needed to sustain and scale impact.

AIR’s Attendance Lab partners with states and school districts to understand the root causes of chronic absenteeism through data analysis and needs assessments. We help schools identify challenges, select evidence-based strategies, and strengthen systems to support student engagement.

Through the Apprenticeship Hub, organizations in Central Indiana will have the guidance they need to build new apprenticeship programs, expand existing programs, and make apprenticeships accessible for all.