Florida Institute of Education: Statewide Research Center

The Florida Institute of Education (FIE) was established in 1982 by the Florida Board of Regents in conjunction with the Florida Legislature. FIE was designated as a Type I (or statewide) Center to serve as a visible focal point for the State University System relative to public school issues. First directed by Dr. Andrew Robinson, FIE was charged with the statewide mission of strengthening the quality of education in Florida by planning and developing collaborative programs and activities among Florida's universities, community colleges, and public schools.

Today FIE, hosted by the University of North Florida and led by Dr. Cheryl Fountain, continues its commitment to improving public education by engaging in systems thinking, collaborative problem-solving, research-focused evaluation, instructional and leadership development, and practice-focused research and development. FIE's strategic plan for conducting research is rooted in the ongoing application of knowledge to critical problems and implementation of initiatives in ways that over time will build on each other and contribute to a deeper understanding of important problems.

As Florida enters the new millennium, FIE will continue to serve as a catalyst for improving the quality of education for all Florida children by translating research into practical curricular and instructional tools, validating effectiveness and resolving conflicting findings, transferring evidence-based and effective tools and strategies into widespread use, answering outcome questions, and informing policymaking and ongoing knowledge-building. The framework for creating usable and accessible knowledge pools is depicted in the Florida Institute of Education (FIE) Framework For Improving Research, Practice, and Policy.

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University of North Florida: Host Institution

The University of North Florida is the host university for FIE, providing administrative and logistical support. Led by President John A. Delaney, UNF is dedicated to becoming a nationally-known, comprehensive university recognized for its high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs; a caring environment rich in intellectual, cultural, and social opportunities; and its strong and vigorous partnerships with Jacksonville and the surrounding communities of Florida’s First Coast.

For additional information about the University of North Florida, exit the FIE website to: http://www.unf.edu