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DI Research

Research

For over 40 years, extensive research has demonstrated the effectiveness of Direct Instruction programs. The National Institute for Direct Instruction (NIFDI) has not only compiled this valuable research but also expanded upon it, reinforcing the powerful impact these programs can have on educational research.

The History of DI Research

DI Programs are based on years of research on how children learn and the most effective ways to teach. This work produced the two basic principles of effective instruction.
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NIFDI-Led Research

Find Technical Reports, prepared and published by NIFDI, and White Papers, which provide summaries of the literature related to DI, as well as analysis and commentary on contemporary issues in education.
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Search the NIFDI Database

Here, we have sought to create a comprehensive archive of all articles, reports, and studies done on Direct Instruction.
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Reviews of Direct Instruction

Evidence suggests that DI is more effective than other programs, with benefits that persist through high school and support students from all backgrounds.
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Direct Instruction Bibliographies

NIFDI staff have prepared a comprehensive bibliography of writings related to DI as well as bibliographies related to various sub-areas of the field.
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Research Downloads

Find research-related documents in this section, including NIFDI Technical Reports, the DI Bibliography, white papers, and more.
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Which best describes your role?

Curriculum Decision Maker
School and District Leader

Interested in learning how to implement Direct Instruction in your district, school, or home? NIFDI can help. Click a button below to learn more. 

Leaders
Coaches
Teachers
Parents
What is a Peer Coach?

Peer coaches play a critical role in sustaining strong implementation of Direct Instruction (DI) at the school level. Selected during the first year of implementation, peer coaches are classroom teachers who demonstrate strong instructional practice, effective communication with colleagues, and a willingness to support others. Because they teach the same programs as their peers, they bring practical expertise and shared experience that help build trust and collaboration across the school.

As implementation progresses, peer coaches extend the impact of NIFDI consultants by providing ongoing, school-based support when consultants are not on-site. Their coaching is non-evaluative and focused on improving student outcomes. Peer coaches reinforce effective teaching practices and guide colleagues to make targeted adjustments that directly impact student performance and behavior.

Peer coaches participate in a structured, multi-year training sequence through NIFDI. Over the course of two to three years, they are trained to analyze student performance data, conduct both brief and extended classroom observations, and support data-driven problem solving. Advanced training prepares them to lead grade-level meetings and contribute to broader instructional planning with school leadership.

By developing peer coaches, schools build internal capacity to maintain and strengthen DI implementation over time—ensuring continuity, supporting new staff, and driving sustained student achievement.