When PBS KIDS comes up with a new game, show, or resource for parent or teachers, we like to test them out to make sure they work as well as we think they will. So we do a “pilot test.” This means we try it out on a small group of kids and/or parents and teachers before rolling it out to everyone. But before we roll out new resources, we take what we learned from the pilot test to make them better.

• Transmedia Suites Pilot Summary Report (WestEd, 2011)

  This study of six newly developed transmedia gaming suites associated with established PBS properties shows early evidence of student learning and engagement with the content and provides recommendations for the next round of product development. Transmedia gaming suites included in the study are: The Cat in the Hat, Curious George, Dinosaur Train, Fetch!, Fizzy’s Lunch Lab, and Sid the Science Kid.

  • Highlights
  • Executive Summary
  • Body
  • Full Report

• Evaluation of The Electric Company Summer Learning Program (WestEd, 2011)

  This study shows that the The Electric Company Summer Learning Program curriculum was effective in teaching 6-8 year olds targeted math vocabulary, numeracy, and literacy skills, increasing student motivation, confidence, morale and enthusiasm for learning, and providing teachers with new instructional strategies for teaching mathematics and literacy.

  • Highlights
  • Executive Summary
  • Body
  • Full Report