About Us
We are Dataworks
DataWORKS Educational Research was founded in 1997 with the single purpose of improving student learning.
By observing and teaching in more than 25,000 classrooms, co-founders Dr. Silvia Ybarra and John Hollingsworth developed the research-based Explicit Direct Instruction (EDI) approach to teaching.
About the Founders
Dr. Silvia Ybarra and John Hollingsworth, founders of Dataworks and Explicit Direct Instruction (EDI), are passionate educators dedicated to empowering teachers and transforming classrooms through impactful instructional strategies. Over the years, they developed and refined their approach, blending research-based techniques with real-world classroom experience to create EDI, a method that ensures students can succeed.
John and Silvia have made it their mission to help teachers break down complex concepts into accessible, step-by-step lessons that resonate with all learners. Their EDI approach emphasizes structured, direct instruction that is interactive, engaging, and supportive, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to grasp foundational knowledge.
Through workshops, coaching, and ongoing support, they have worked with thousands of educators worldwide, equipping them with strategies that increase engagement, boost retention, and build students’ confidence.
With EDI, John and Silvia are transforming how teachers approach instruction by giving educators practical techniques for well-crafted, well-taught lessons so students learn more and learn more easily.
Today, Explicit Direct Instruction stands as a trusted resource in education, helping teachers unlock students’ full potential and foster learning that lasts a lifetime.
Professional Development
Discuss classroom strategies with the author of an educational best seller.
Resources
Learn practical strategies for making learning visible in the classroom.
Research
Observe and practice specific strategies in the classroom with your students
Trusted Partner
Why Choose Us
Dataworks is pleased to offer its services to all educators. Satisfied clients like us for these reasons:
Experience.
We walk our talk. We don’t just talk about what works; we go into the classroom and show you what works. Then, we train you how to do it. For 20 years, we have helped teachers around the world transform their classrooms and schools.
Proof.
We know what works based on academic research and our own original field research in thousands of classrooms. When teachers apply these proven strategies, they get results for their students. Learning is truly visible in the classroom.
Customization.
There is no one size fits all plan. We work with you to meet your needs for budget, scheduling, content, and staffing. We consult with you at no charge to see how our services fit with your unique school and students. Then, we prepare a customized solution.
Services
What Can We Do For You?
Fill out the form with your school email address, and we will get back to you.
We will reach out to schedule a meeting with you.
Alternatively, you can book a phone or Zoom appointment directly by following this link: https://dataworks-ed.com/book-appointment/
Instruction Insights
Research & Development
Explicit Direct Instruction (EDI)® is a powerful teaching methodology designed to ensure all students succeed, regardless of their starting point. By focusing on clear, structured, and intentional lesson delivery, EDI empowers teachers to break down complex skills and concepts into manageable steps, making learning accessible for every student.
With an emphasis on engagement, immediate feedback, and frequent checks for understanding, EDI reduces confusion and increases retention.
By prioritizing a structured approach, EDI doesn’t just teach content; it builds confidence and mastery, setting all students on a path to long-term success.
