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On the first day, participants are introduced to the core principles and objectives of Explicit Direct Instruction (EDI)® , a proven teaching model aimed at achieving 80-100% student success in every lesson. The session begins with an overview of the research supporting EDI and includes a reflective activity where teachers consider how these findings can be applied in their classrooms.

The training dives into the science of how students process and retain information, emphasizing instructional design strategies that maximize retention. Teachers reflect on how brain research can inform and improve their instructional practices.

An engaging segment on student engagement highlights methods for maintaining active participation every 97 seconds through listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Participants watch classroom practice videos, practice these strategies with partners, and reflect on how to implement them effectively in their teaching.

Teachers are guided through the components of an EDI lesson, including defining clear learning objectives, activating prior knowledge, concept and skill development, guided practice, relevance, and closure. They analyze sample EDI lessons with grade-level peers using online resources to connect theory to practice.

The day also focuses on techniques for checking student understanding in real time. Teachers learn to use the TAPPLE®  framework: teach first, ask a specific question, pair-share, pick a random student, listen to their response, and provide effective feedback. This includes strategies for asking higher-order questions, using whiteboards for immediate feedback, and reteaching when student success is below 80%.

The session concludes with an exploration of effective feedback and coaching, emphasizing real-time application of teaching strategies. Teachers reflect on how to incorporate peer coaching into their professional growth and practice key strategies to ensure 100% correct student responses. By the end of the day, educators are equipped with actionable tools to enhance lesson success and student engagement.

During Days 2-4, the training focuses on practical application through demonstration lessons and teacher-led practice. Teachers work in grade-level or content-area cohorts (e.g., K-1, 2-3, 4-6, and subject-specific groups for middle and high school). Lessons are selected collaboratively by schools and DataWORKS consultants from the extensive catalog available on educeri.com.

Each day follows a structured schedule, including one or two demonstration lessons based on the number of participants. Roving substitute teachers release cohorts to observe and participate in the training. The process begins with a pre-brief session, where the lesson plan is reviewed and discussed in detail to prepare teachers for observation.

The DataWORKS consultant delivers the lesson directly to students, providing a live demonstration while teachers observe. This is followed by a debrief session where the consultant and teachers analyze the lesson, focusing on key strategies and techniques.

Next, teachers take an active role by teaching the same lesson to different students. Typically, three teachers divide the lesson into segments, with each teaching a specific part. This allows participants to practice their delivery and refine their instructional techniques. Throughout this process, DataWORKS consultants provide in-situ coaching, offering real-time feedback and support to ensure the implementation of effective teaching practices.

The day concludes with a final debrief session, where participants reflect on the day’s experiences, identifying key takeaways and strategies they can incorporate into their daily classroom routines. The hands-on nature of Days 2-4 ensures that teachers leave the training equipped with practical skills and confidence to implement EDI strategies effectively.

Day 5 focuses on equipping administrators, academic coaches, and school leaders with the tools to observe and quantify the implementation of EDI practices, ensuring sustainable improvement. This session provides a framework for effective classroom observations and strategic planning.

The day begins with a pre-brief session where participants review the observation process, including how to use specific forms for recording data. Emphasis is placed on identifying key instructional practices, such as EDI lesson components, student engagement strategies, and methods for checking understanding.

Observers conduct two rounds of classroom visits, observing 10 random classrooms for five minutes each. During these short visits, they record observed practices and note evidence of EDI strategies in action. After each observation, participants gather in the hallway to discuss the practices they witnessed and share insights.

Following the classroom visits, the group engages in a structured debrief to analyze the collected data. This includes identifying patterns, areas of success, and opportunities for improvement. Participants work collaboratively to draft SMART goals based on their observations, focusing on actionable, measurable outcomes that will drive instructional growth.

The session concludes with strategic planning for future implementation. This includes setting timelines for follow-up observations, identifying professional development needs, and creating a roadmap for sustained use of EDI practices. By the end of the day, school leaders have a clear plan to support and monitor the ongoing integration of EDI strategies in their classrooms.