Common-Sense Evidence is a breath of fresh air in a policy context that narrowly and, largely unsuccessfully, has privileged particular kinds of evidence and particular kinds of use. Gordon and Conaway empower education leaders with expert guidance on finding, creating, and using evidence in ways that actually meets their needs. Through explanation, example, and tools, the book is direct, actionable, and elevates the user to the center of the research use agenda. — Elizabeth N. Farley-Ripple, associate professor and director of Partnership for Public Education, University of Delaware

Bridging the connection between research and real-world practice is a critical need, but there are very few tools to show us how. Common-Sense Evidence is a practical guide for unpacking problems and making research more intuitive and accessible for educators. It gives us a process for understanding how to take what we learn and apply it, so research can actually improve the work of teachers and leaders. — Candice McQueen, chief executive officer, National Institute for Excellence in Teaching, former Tennessee Commissioner of Education

Policy makers and practitioners need evidence to make decisions. But the available evidence base is often overwhelming, and there’s frequently a disconnect between the evidence that leaders need and what researchers produce. In this must-read book, Nora Gordon and Carrie Conaway—trailblazers in connecting leaders with research—demystify the research process. And, even more importantly, they give leaders the power to build and nurture truly evidence-driven learning organizations. — David Figlio, Orrington Lunt Professor and Dean, School of Education and Social Policy, Northwestern University

Given the need to interest more administrators in research to improve curriculum and instruction, I recommend this work as a companion to a traditional education statistics text. Gordon and Conaway teach useful methods for securing data for suggestive consideration. — School Administrator

The text clearly belongs on the desk of district leaders as well as in the classrooms of educational leadership programs. Common-Sense Evidence: The Education Leader’s Guide to Using Data and Research is arguably one of the most meaningful texts related to the development of successful educational leaders in current times. — Journal of School Choice

Part of the "Race and Education" series, Common-Sense Evidence explores the personal experiences and systemic structures navigated by first-generation Chicana/o/x college students, fitting well within the current interest in diversity, inclusivity, and understanding the lived experiences of people of color. The information presented here is exceptionally valuable for faculty members looking for insights into pedagogical approaches, practices, and policies vital to serving Chicana/o/x students. — American School Board Journal