What is the TRU framework?

TRU is a framework for characterizing powerful learning environments in crisp and actionable ways. It provides a straightforward and accessible language for discussing what happens (and should happen) in classrooms, in professional preparation and Professional Development (PD). TRU is consistent with what we know to be good practice, and it focuses classroom and administrative attention on what counts in learning. What that means, in particular, is that high-quality instruction and PD will be consistent with TRU and that if we adopt this framework and language, parallels in instruction across disciplines will be clear.

Central to TRU are the 5 dimensions of classroom activity. Classrooms that do well on these 5 dimensions produce students who are powerful thinkers:

Parts of this website are based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. Award 1503454. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.

Next page: TRU Intro