Frequently asked questions

The Pathways to Work Quality Review Team (QRT) handles any challenges received about a review’s findings, the inclusion of a study within the Pathways to Work Evidence Clearinghouse, or other individual judgements the Pathways to Work team makes. The QRT addresses issues with reviews so long as they are (1) submitted in writing to PathwaysClearinghouse@abtglobal.com, (2) related to a specific study or well-defined set of studies, and (3) coherently explained (and the inquirer is available to answer any clarifying questions).

When a request is submitted to the QRT, a team member first verifies the request meets the criteria listed above. After this confirmation, the team member examines the study and any related materials, discusses the review with the original study reviewers, and presents a summary of the review and any potential flaws to the QRT. The QRT then determines whether the initial review should be revised, notifies OPRE and the inquirer of its findings and, if necessary, edits any products to reflect the updated review.

Studies with low quality ratings demonstrate little evidence that findings are attributable, in part or in full, to the program examined. A low quality rating suggests that there is a high risk of bias. Pathways to Work focuses on providing detailed information for studies rated high or moderate quality because these studies have a lower risk of bias and the programs are more likely to have contributed to the findings. In other words, the Pathways to Work Evidence Clearinghouse focuses on studies that provide the most relevant, useful information for program providers and policymakers.