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BRIEF REPORT: Associations Between ALEKS Personalized Learning Software Use and Student Mathematics Achievement in Utah in 2020-2021

Students using ALEKS for 23 minutes or more every week showed improved math proficiency, with stronger gains at more than 48 minutes.

  • PreK-12
  • Education Research
  • Math
  • Supplemental
  • ALEKS
  • Utah
  • 3rd Grade
  • 4th Grade
  • 5th Grade
  • 6th Grade
  • 7th Grade
  • 8th Grade
  • Elementary School
  • Middle School
  • ESSA Tier III (Promising)

Description

A study conducted by the Utah Education Policy Center examined the impact of ALEKS personalized learning software on student math achievement during the 2020-2021 academic year. Using data from ALEKS and the Utah State Board of Education, the study analyzed associations between weekly software usage and student proficiency on statewide math assessments (RISE). Propensity score matching was used to reduce selection bias. Analyses also included logistic and linear regressions. Results showed that students who used ALEKS for 23 minutes or more per week were more likely to achieve math proficiency compared to non-users. Students with 48 minutes or more of weekly usage had significantly stronger math performance. The study highlights the importance of effective teacher integration of technology into instruction to maximize the benefits of personalized learning software. Future research is recommended to explore how teacher behaviors, student characteristics, and classroom dynamics influence outcomes.

Research Citation:

Altermatt, E. R., Moore, B., Altermatt, T. W., & Rorrer, A. K. (2023). Brief Report: Associations Between ALEKS Personalized Learning Software Use and Student Mathematics Achievement in Utah in 2020 – 2021. Salt Lake City, UT: Utah Education Policy Center"