State Education Leaders’ Use of Research: Leveraging Partnerships and Evidence to Protect Equity

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 1:30 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Bridging Research and Practice: Navigating Challenges in Knowledge Use and Educational Renewal (Table 8)

Abstract

While much scholarship highlights research-practice partnerships (RPPs) as venues for supporting research use, few studies focus on the state level of the education system. This gap is critical to address, as state education agency leaders play influential roles connecting federal and state policy with local practice. Drawing on interview and observation data collected through a cross-state RPP, we examine 26 state education leaders’ use of research in their work focused on English learner policy. Findings reveal how research informed leaders’ development of statewide guidance and served as a protection against rising anti-equity politics. Implications highlight the benefits of RPP collaboration for state leaders, as well as the need to support researchers with building their capacity for partnership work.

Authors

• Hayley Ryan Weddle, University of Pittsburgh

• Megan Hopkins, University of California - San Diego

• Sierra Stern, University of Pittsburgh

• Hannah Goldstein, University of Pittsburgh