Understanding how Singapore's classrooms work: how teachers teach and students learn.
CORE is Singapore's longest-running study of classroom practice. We observe, record, and analyse what actually happens when teachers teach and students learn, across hundreds of schools and thousands of lessons.
CORE is not an acronym. Rather, it is a research programme that focuses on the Instructional Core: teachers and students in the presence of content. Our logo includes a barometer, a tool that measures changes in air pressure over time, to symbolise how we have been documenting pedagogical change since 2004.
Three lenses on the same classroom
CORE examines everyday teaching and learning from three angles at once, so that findings can reflect the full picture of what happens in a lesson, not just one side of it.
Classroom observation
We record and analyse how teachers teach: instructional methods, assessment practice, and the choices made moment to moment in a lesson.
Student experience
We study how students engage with the subject matter: their attitudes, motivation, and their interest in what they are learning.
Teacher experience
We work with teachers to understand their pedagogical choices and how research findings can support ongoing professional development.
CORE's research means something a little different depending on who you are. Pick the path that fits you.
I am a...
What this means for your child
Learn what CORE research means for your child's classroom experience, and how their privacy is protected.
Learn more → StudentWhat happens in your lesson
Curious what it's actually like when CORE visits your class? It's covered alongside the parent information, in plain terms.
Learn more → TeacherSupport for your classroom
Discover how CORE supports teachers through classroom-relevant findings and professional development.
Learn more → ResearcherAccess our publications
Browse CORE's research outputs and find out how to collaborate with the programme.
Learn more →From the programme
Understanding teaching and learning
The CORE Research Programme continues its long-term commitment to classroom research, now in its fourth phase focused on learner perspectives.
July 2026