DataWORKS Educational Research

DataWORKS Educational Research was founded in 1997 with the single purpose of improving student learning.

By observing and teaching in more than 25,000 classrooms, co-founders Dr. Silvia Ybarra and John Hollingsworth developed the research-based Explicit Direct Instruction (EDI) approach to teaching.

Dr. Silvia Ybarra and John Hollingsworth, founders of Dataworks and Explicit Direct Instruction (EDI), are passionate educators dedicated to empowering teachers and transforming classrooms through impactful instructional strategies. Over the years, they developed and refined their approach, blending research-based techniques with real-world classroom experience to create EDI, a method that ensures students can succeed.

John and Silvia have made it their mission to help teachers break down complex concepts into accessible, step-by-step lessons that resonate with all learners. Their EDI approach emphasizes structured, direct instruction that is interactive, engaging, and supportive, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to grasp foundational knowledge.

Through workshops, coaching, and ongoing support, they have worked with thousands of educators worldwide, equipping them with strategies that increase engagement, boost retention, and build students’ confidence.

With EDI, John and Silvia are transforming how teachers approach instruction by giving educators practical techniques for well-crafted, well-taught lessons so students learn more and learn more easily.

Today, Explicit Direct Instruction stands as a trusted resource in education, helping teachers unlock students’ full potential and foster learning that lasts a lifetime.