Reasoning Mind, Inc.

Reasoning Mind, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving K-12 math education in the United States. Founded in 2000, it works to provide a first-rate mathematics education for every child by developing adaptive, blended learning programs that enhance students' understanding and engagement with mathematics.

Mission

The organization's mission is to change perceptions around math, increase student engagement, and build confidence. It achieves this by offering interactive, web-based curricula designed to foster higher-order thinking skills and prepare students for advanced math courses like algebra, which is often seen as a gateway to college.

Programs

Reasoning Mind's programs are structured to build a strong foundational understanding of mathematics. The system introduces new concepts in the context of previously learned objectives, creating a network of mathematical knowledge that students can draw upon. The adaptive technology adjusts the difficulty level of assignments based on individual student performance, providing a customized learning path for each student. Detailed reports are generated to help teachers identify students' strengths and weaknesses, enabling targeted instruction.

Professional Development

Reasoning Mind offers professional development opportunities for teachers. These include training sessions and ongoing support from implementation coordinators who visit schools to ensure effective integration of the program. The organization's approach has been praised for its ability to increase student engagement, with reports indicating that students using the program spend more time on task compared to traditional classroom settings.

Partnerships and Funding

Reasoning Mind collaborates with schools and educational partners across the United States to implement its programs. The organization is supported by major philanthropic foundations, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Houston Endowment, the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation, and the ExxonMobil Foundation, among others. Additionally, Reasoning Mind has received funding from the Texas Education Agency.

Recognition

In recognition of its innovative approach to math education, Reasoning Mind was awarded the Deloitte RightStep Innovation Prize in 2015. The organization has also been endorsed by educational and scientific bodies such as the Academy of Medicine, Engineering and Science of Texas and the National Council on Teacher Quality.

Impact

As of the latest updates, Reasoning Mind has expanded its reach to over 120,000 students and 3,000 teachers across 15 states. Its efficacy has been evaluated through numerous high-quality research studies, demonstrating positive outcomes in student engagement and academic achievement. The organization continues to evolve, focusing on increasing its impact by expanding partnerships and enhancing its adaptive learning technologies.