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.
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’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
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.
Please download and complete the appropriate Application Form below for access to the EQAO Data Portal. 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
Download and complete the FOI Access or Correction Request Form [PDF] and send it to the address below: