What should I as an educator focus on?

The major theme of Visible Learning is “Know Thy Impact” and this is what we would like educators to focus on. In a nutshell:

• Everything works. So, asking does X improve achievement is a trivial claim;
• We need to aim for a larger magnitude change than just “any change” and we know what is average (d=<0.40) so this is the minimal target;
• The key is for school leaders, systems and teachers to know the impact they are having and to work from this. If it is less than d=0.40 you have to ask yourself is this is worthwhile carrying on with. If this is more than d=0.40 then carry on with what you are doing; and,
• “Know Thy Impact” forces the moral question: impact on what? This is more than achievement. This extends to making schools an inviting place to learn, retention through to the final year of school, moving from surface only to also include deep processing, enjoyment and passion, etc.