DreamBox Learning

DreamBox Learning
Name	DreamBox Learning
Genre	Educational software
Platforms	Web application

DreamBox Learning is an adaptive educational technology platform designed for K–12 mathematics instruction. Founded in 2006, it utilizes intelligent tutoring system principles to provide personalized learning paths. The platform is widely used in United States schools and districts as a supplemental instructional tool. Its development and efficacy studies have involved collaborations with institutions like Stanford University and the University of Chicago.

Overview

The company was established by former Washington state technology executive Lou Gray and Ben Slivka, a veteran of Microsoft. Initial development was influenced by research from Stanford University on cognitive science and mathematics education. A significant early investment came from the Charter School Growth Fund, aiding its initial deployment in public school networks. The platform's underlying adaptive algorithm was designed to address the instructional challenges highlighted in reports like the National Mathematics Advisory Panel findings.

Educational approach

The software's pedagogy is rooted in constructivism (learning theory) and emphasizes conceptual understanding over procedural fluency. It incorporates principles from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics standards, focusing on mathematical reasoning and problem solving. The adaptive engine responds in real-time to student strategies, not just answers, a method informed by research from the University of California, Berkeley. This approach aims to develop what Jo Boaler, a professor at Stanford Graduate School of Education, terms a "growth mindset" toward mathematics.

Curriculum and content

The platform's scope spans from early number sense to Algebra I concepts, aligned to standards like the Common Core State Standards Initiative. Content is delivered through interactive learning games and virtual manipulatives, such as digital versions of base ten blocks and fraction bars. Lessons are structured into learning progressions that build upon foundational ideas outlined by organizations like the National Science Foundation. The curriculum also includes instructional supports for English language learners, following guidelines from WIDA Consortium assessments.

Technology and platform

The platform is a cloud computing-based software as a service application accessible via web browsers and iOS tablet computers. Its proprietary adaptive learning engine uses branching logic and predictive analytics to customize problem sequences. Data on student performance is aggregated in dashboard (business intelligence) for educators, compatible with student information systems like PowerSchool. The technology infrastructure leverages services from Amazon Web Services to ensure scalability for large districts such as Clark County School District.

Research and efficacy

The company has engaged in third-party studies, including a large-scale randomized controlled trial conducted by WestEd and funded by the U.S. Department of Education. This research, which showed positive effects on Northwest Evaluation Association Measures of Academic Progress scores, contributed to the platform's "Strong" rating from Evidence for ESSA. Further validation studies have been published in journals like the Journal of Educational Psychology. The platform's design is also informed by ongoing collaborations with researchers at the University of Michigan and MIT's Teaching Systems Lab.

Business and adoption

The company is headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, within the broader Puget Sound technology corridor. It was acquired in 2020 by Discovery Education, a subsidiary of Discovery, Inc., significantly expanding its distribution channels. Major adoption milestones include district-wide implementations in Los Angeles Unified School District and Houston Independent School District. The platform is also utilized in Canadian provinces like British Columbia, following curriculum alignments with local standards. Its business model includes partnerships with organizations like the Council of the Great City Schools to support urban education initiatives.

Category:Educational software companies Category:Adaptive learning