The Political Realities of Education Reform: What Is the Role for Educational Research?

Session Type: Invited Session

Abstract

While much of the rhetoric of education reform focuses on what teachers and parents are or are not doing or on how different organizational models for schools (small schools, charter schools etc.), it can be argued that real reform in urban areas is more of a political question than a technical one. While we may get some gains in achievement with different models of schools or by changing how we train teachers, the vast funding disparities and demographic differences between urban schools and suburban schools are at the root of the problems politically isolated city schools face. Altering this landscape is a political issue. In light of this reality that much of education reform is a political problem, what role is there for researchers? How can research help to address a fundamentally political problem? What role can and should an organization like AERA play addressing the political reality of education reform? What do researchers need to do to successfully address education reform from this perspective?

This session will bring together local and national experts in educational research and policy to address these questions. The panel will be asked to make brief opening statements and then the session will be moderated. The idea will be to have a structured conversation on this topic leaving plenty of room for audience questions and participation.

Sub Unit

• AERA Presidential Session

Chair

• Erin McNamara Horvat, Temple University

Participants

• Kathleen M. Shaw, Research for Action

• Jeffrey R. Henig, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Kent McGuire, Southern Education Foundation, Inc.

• Jeannie Oakes, University of California - Los Angeles

• Edward G. Rendell, Former Governor of Pennsylvania