We Are CREO
The University of Notre Dame’s Center for Research on Educational Opportunity conducts basic and applied research on schools and the learning process. CREO scholars consider the formal and informal organization of schools, the curriculum, teacher practices, and student social relationships to determine how these factors interact with student background and learning. Special attention is given to less privileged students and Catholic schools. CREO is currently composed of four sociology faculty, a statistician, and eleven graduate students.
Every Child Deserves a High-Quality Education
The Center for Research on Educational Opportunity (CREO) is a part of the Institute for Educational Initiatives at the University of Notre Dame. Directed by Dr. Mark Berends, CREO seeks educational excellence and equity in American education. CREO faculty and graduate students conduct basic and applied research on schools and the learning process, focusing in particular on the formal and informal organization of schools, the curriculum, teacher practices, and student social relationships to determine how these factors interact with student background and ability to affect student learning. Consistent with the Institute’s commitment to social justice, special attention is given to less privileged students and Catholic schools.
Contributing to Excellence and Equity in Education
CREO offers a continuing lecture series addressing contemporary issues in education and an annual research conference to report recent research findings on schools. CREO also sponsors workshops and symposia, initiates and coordinates research projects among faculty, and sponsors faculty exchanges, postdoctoral fellowships, and graduate training in areas related to the CREO mission. Through these efforts, CREO hopes to make a significant contribution toward attaining educational excellence and equity in American education.
CREO's Home
CREO is located in the Nanovic wing of Jenkins Nanovic Hall's 4th floor. An on-site library with Sociology of Education research materials is available for CREO faculty and students. In 2007, a restricted data room was established.