116 STAT. 1944 PUBLIC LAW 107-279—NOV. 5, 2002 (D) employs experimental designs using random assignment, when feasible, and other research methodologies that allow for the strongest possible causal inferences when random assignment is not feasible; and (E) may study program implementation through a combination of scientifically valid and reliable methods. (20) SCIENTIFICALLY VALID RESEARCH.—The term "scientif- ically valid research" includes applied research, basic research, and field-initiated research in which the rationale, design, and interpretation are soundly developed in accordance with scientifically based research standards. (21) SECRETARY.— The term "Secretary" means the Secretary of Education. (22) STATE.— The term "State" includes (except as provided in section 158) each of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the freely associated states, and the outlying areas. (23) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.—The term "technical assistance" means— (A) assistance in identifying, selecting, or designing solutions based on research, including professional development and high-quality training to implement solutions leading to— (i) improved educational and other practices and classroom instruction based on scientifically valid research; and (ii) improved planning, design, and administration of programs; (B) assistance in interpreting, analyzing, and utilizing statistics and evaluations; and (C) other assistance necessary to encourage the improvement of teaching and learning through the applications of techniques supported by scientifically valid research. PART A—THE INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION SCIENCES 20 USC 9511. SEC. 111. ESTABLISHMENT. (a) ESTABLISHMENT. —There shall be in the Department the Institute of Education Sciences, to be administered by a Director (as described in section 114) and, to the extent set forth in section 116, a board of directors. (b) MISSION. — (1) IN GENERAL.— The mission of the Institute is to provide national leadership in expanding fundamental knowledge and understanding of education from early childhood through postsecondary study, in order to provide parents, educators, students, researchers, policymakers, and the general public with reliable information about— (A) the condition and progress of education in the United States, including early childhood education; (B) educational practices that support learning and improve academic achievement and access to educational opportunities for all students; and (C) the effectiveness of Federal and other education programs.
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