The Common Core State Standards: Views From the Bridge Between Research and Implementation

Session Type: Invited Session

Abstract

The widespread adoption and implementation of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and aligned assessments represent one of the most significant developments in education policy in the last two decades. While each state’s efforts to implement the CCSS are unique, there is a larger national agenda that supports deeper, more rigorous standards for all schools and aligned assessments to measure student achievement. As a result, much hope -- and possibly outsized expectations -- have been built upon the notion that the CCSS and new assessments have the ability to transform teaching and learning in a majority of U.S. schools. Researchers recognize that the CCSS and assessments represent a unique opportunity to study the many facets of major education reform. This research has the potential to not only support state and local efforts to effectively implement the CCSS, but also inform a wide range of policy and advocacy agendas. This session will explore how researchers, policymakers, and practitioners can work together to ensure that a range of implementation research is being conducted and used to inform both policy and practice.

Sub Unit

• AERA Presidential Session

Chair

• Michael J. Feuer, The George Washington University

Papers

• Views From the World of Practice - Kaya Henderson, District of Columbia Public Schools; Abigail Smith, Teach For America, Inc.

• Views From the World of Research - Gina Burkhardt, American Institutes for Research; Joshua L. Glazer, The George Washington University

• Conversation - Carl A. Cohn, Claremont Graduate University; Susan Fuhrman, Teachers College, Columbia University

• A View From the Bridge (Between Research and Practice) - Heather A. Harding, The George Washington University

Discussant

• Maria Ferguson, Center on Education Policy