A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Reasons and Claims About #OptingOut of Standardized Tests on Twitter

• In Event: 51.078 - MTCC Roundtable Session 21
  In Roundtable Session: 51.078-6 - Structural Inequalities in Schools

Abstract

Recent movements to “opt-out” of state assessments have galvanized debates about accountability, standards and testing. Many of these debates have played out on social media. This study combines machine learning strategies with qualitative data analysis to isolate and analyze Twitter discourse about opting-out in the Spring of 2015. We document key arguments made against testing, including concerns about corporate involvement in public education and a narrowed conception of teaching and learning. We also show how advocates of testing were more circumspect on social media. Drawing on these findings, we point to the powerful role of activists and social media platforms in shaping debates about policy implementation and reform.

Authors

• Terri S. Wilson, University of Colorado Boulder

• Wagma S. Mommandi, University of Colorado - Boulder

• Amy Burkhardt, University of Colorado - Boulder

• Michele S. Moses, University of Colorado - Boulder