Research

As part of EQAO’s commitment to providing objective, reliable and useful data about student achievement, the agency has an active research program that undertakes a number of original projects.

On this page

    Research Framework

    At EQAO, we believe discussions about education quality need to be evidence-informed and grounded in research. EQAO recognizes the need for a continued focus on research to examine effective high-quality educational experiences that support student achievement at the individual, classroom, school and system levels—that is why EQAO has established the #DataInAction Research Framework [PDF].

    The main objective of our #DataInAction research framework is to ensure our data are used for their primary purpose—improved student learning. This is why we are currently accepting research proposals that leverage our data or seek to collaborate with the agency with the goal of furthering student achievement.

    EQAO Statistical Standards

    EQAO aligns with Statistics Canada in recognizing “statistical standards” as a set of rules that describe how data are collected and how statistics and results are produced and shared. Statistical standards are used to provide data insights on specific topics and the learning experiences of groups of students. The standards also ensure consistency in data quality over time. EQAO Statistical Standards [PDF]

    EQAO’s Data Quality Framework

    EQAO’s Data Quality Framework [PDF] provides systematic and methodological rigour to the agency’s data quality validation processes. EQAO’s data quality processes use clearly defined guidelines, business rules, methodologies and protocols to ensure that data quality is maintained at all stages, including for the collection, processing and analyzing of educational data, and for the reporting and sharing of results.

    Research Partners

    EQAO is pleased to partner with the following organizations:

    Research Reports

    Mathematics Strands and Skills

    These reports take a look at Grades 3, 6 and 9 Ontario students’ achievement on the mathematics curriculum strands and skills, in addition to providing information on students’ strengths and needs in mathematics.

    Student Achievement on Mathematics Curriculum Strands, 2021–2022: Research Brief [PDF]

    In this research brief, EQAO takes a look at Grades 3, 6 and 9 Ontario students’ strengths and needs in mathematics, and how achievement on the curriculum strands relates to meeting the overall curriculum expectations.

    Student Achievement on the Mathematics Curriculum Strands, 2021–2022: Implications for Instructional Planning [PDF]

    This document, based on the findings of EQAO’s study on student achievement on mathematics strands, provides information to educators on possible cross-strand connections and suggestions for implications for instruction that may impact planning. The research provides areas of focus within a grade or from grade to grade.

    Student Achievement on the Mathematics Curriculum Strands: Results from the 2021–2022 Primary- and Junior-Division and Grade 9 Assessments [PDF]

    This EQAO study explores Ontario students’ achievement, particularly at Levels 2 and 3, on the mathematics curriculum strands as assessed by the mathematics components of the EQAO primary- and junior-division assessments and the Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics.

    Student Achievement on Mathematics Categories of Knowledge and Skills, 2021–2022: Research Brief [PDF]

    In this research brief, EQAO takes a look at Grades 3, 6 and 9 Ontario students’ strengths and needs in mathematics, and how achievement on the curriculum categories of knowledge and skills relates to meeting the overall curriculum expectations.

    Student Achievement on Mathematics Categories of Knowledge and Skills: Results from the 2021–2022 Primary- and Junior-Division and Grade 9 Assessments [PDF]

    This EQAO study explores Ontario students’ achievement, particularly at Levels 2 and 3, on the mathematics categories of knowledge and skills as assessed by the mathematics components of the EQAO primary- and junior-division assessments and the Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics.

    Multi-Stage Computer Adaptive Tests (msCATs)

    Classrooms increasingly rely on digital tools for teaching and learning. To reflect these realities, EQAO is digitalizing Ontario’s large-scale assessment program. Computer adaptive testing is an important component of EQAO’s modernized assessments and a useful tool to meet students where they are in their learning development.

    Multi-stage computer adaptive tests (msCATs) present many benefits to students, parents and guardians, and educators. These include adapting to student proficiency, offering flexibility in assessment scheduling while maintaining security, and providing automated reports, which allow for timely and detailed feedback. Check out these additional resources on msCATs:

    Student Voices

    What Engages Students, in Their Own Words [PDF]
    We can learn a lot about students and their perspectives by listening to their needs, wants and successes.

    What Do You Want Next Year’s Teacher to Know About You? [PDF]

    EQAO asked students from across the province the question “What do you want next year’s teacher to know about you?” In the responses of 28 students, there is consensus on three key themes.

    Lessons from EQAO Data on Fundamental Math Skills: How Are Ontario Students Doing? [PDF]

    The purpose of this informational report is to provide an overview of provincial achievement of fundamental math skills among primary and junior students. The report draws from EQAO data gathered in 2016, 2017 and 2018.

    Math Superpowers [PDF]

    Is mathematics achievement all about the math, or can students advance their math achievement by empowering themselves as math students? EQAO research suggests that positive attitudes and strategies support success.

    A Close Look at Mathematics Series—Volume 1

    This research volume provides an in-depth review and compilation of EQAO data and insights from 2011 to 2019, demonstrating the importance of examining learning contexts to gain a better understanding of mathematics achievement in Ontario. 

    Data Access

    EQAO makes available the following data definitions for each type of data file for public use:

    EQAO Data Portal Access

    Requestors can access these EQAO data files through the EQAO Data Portal. Access is limited to files containing information from which names, Ontario Education Numbers and other personal identifiers have been removed.

    After downloading and completing the appropriate application form from below, please e-mail it to [email protected]. Once the application is approved by EQAO, you will receive an e-mail with instructions to access the posted data files.

    Freedom of Information (FOI) Requests

    Requestors requiring data not contained in the files provided through the EQAO Data Portal may wish to request these data through EQAO’s Freedom of Information (FOI) request process. Please note that there is a charge for this service. Once your FOI data request has been received and analyzed and it has been established by an EQAO director that the data requested is not infringing upon student, teacher or principal privacy or confidentiality, you will receive a cost estimate from EQAO. The data files will be processed and provided as soon as possible.  
    Download and complete the FOI Access or Correction Request Form [PDF] and send it to the address below:
    Attn: Director of Corporate and Public Affairs
    Education Quality and Accountability Office
    Suite 1200, 2 Carlton Street
    Toronto ON  M5B 2M9
    To learn more about EQAO research, contact the EQAO Information Centre:
    Tel.: 1-888-327-7377
    E-mail: [email protected]
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