This review formed the basis for a six year quantitative and qualitative research study by Louis et al. ( This amounted to survey data from a total of 8 391 teachers and 471 school administrators; interview data from 581 teachers and administrators, 304 district level informants, and 124 state personnel; and observational data from 312 classrooms. It included surveys completed by headteachers and a range of other stakeholders, 20 case studies of primary and secondary schools and a literature review. The self-evaluation process aimed to increase student learning through the use of student assessment and clear learning goals and relied on the same tool in both schools.