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Jason Ravitz
President at Evaluation by Design LLC
Professional Background
Jason Ravitz brings a wealth of experience in the field of educational technology and evaluation, making significant contributions as a leader and innovator. He is currently the President of Evaluation by Design LLC, a prominent consultancy that focuses on providing robust evaluation services for educational technology initiatives. By leveraging his expertise in educational technology design, Jason helps organizations develop evaluations that not only measure effectiveness but also support capacity building among educators and stakeholders.
His previous roles reflect a deep commitment to integrating technology into education to enhance learning outcomes. As a former Senior Research Scientist for the Dynamic Learning Project at Digital Promise, Jason was pivotal in researching and analyzing large-scale data to inform the development of educational practices that utilize digital tools. His contributions at Digital Promise underscored the importance of utilizing empirical evidence in educational reforms, especially in project-based learning environments.
Throughout his diverse career, Jason has held several influential positions, including Senior Program Manager at University Relations at Google, where he oversaw initiatives that connected Google's resources with educational institutions. His work at Google as Education Outreach Evaluation Manager focused on evaluating educational programs and materials, ensuring that they effectively met the needs of classrooms across the country.
In addition to his time at Google, Jason served as Lead Consultant at Evaluation and Research Professionals. In this role, he guided organizations in conducting project evaluations that improved their educational offerings. He also held the position of Director of Research at the Buck Institute for Education, where he drove research initiatives related to project-based learning—an educational approach that engages students in instructional activities closely aligned with real-world challenges.
Jason's comprehensive background in education also includes roles as a Postdoctoral Scholar at SRI International and as a Research Specialist at UC Irvine's Center for Research on Information Technology and Organizations (CRITO). Through these positions, he gained insights into the intersection of technology and education, which have informed his subsequent endeavors in the field.
Additionally, he delivered instruction as a computer teacher at Medford Public Schools and acted as a consultant and assistant to the president at Management Strategies in Boston, further showcasing his broad expertise and adaptability in various educational settings.
Education and Achievements
Jason Ravitz's educational background is rooted in his dedication to teaching and technology. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Design from Syracuse University, a degree which reflects his focus on the intersection of design and education. This academic foundation enables him to approach educational challenges creatively and innovatively, ensuring that technological solutions are not only functional but also effective for learners.
At Harvard University, Jason studied Teacher Education, Social Studies, and completed a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Education, and Sociology. His time at Harvard shaped his understanding of educational systems and the various factors that influence learning and development. It was here, in an environment of rich intellectual discourse, that he honed his passion for educational reform and the role of technology in shaping the future of education.
Moreover, Jason developed his formative skills at Cass Technical High School, where he engaged with a curriculum designed to foster critical thinking and creative problem-solving. The blend of experiences from his high school education through to his advanced studies equips Jason with a well-rounded view of educational needs and technologies today.
Notable Achievements
Jason has made substantial strides in educational technology and evaluation, cementing his reputation as a thought leader in the field. His work has influenced educational practices nationwide, particularly in utilizing technology to support learning outcomes. Notably, he has been recognized for helping educators improve their research communications, making research more accessible to policymakers and practitioners, and thereby fostering evidence-based decision-making in education.
Through his involvement in large-scale data analysis and survey research, Jason continues to contribute valuable insights into the efficacy of educational technologies and methodologies. His commitment to project-based learning enhances student engagement and promotes critical skills needed in the 21st-century workplace.
As a trailblazer in educational technology evaluation, Jason Ravitz exemplifies a blend of theory and practice, empowering educators and organizations to navigate the complexities of modern education. His advocacy for technology-supported assessments ensures that evaluations are not only reflective of student learning experiences but also of the broader educational landscape. His drive to connect research with practice emphasizes the significance of evidence in improving educational initiatives.