Mapping the Imprint Foundation-Funded Research in Federal and State Education Policies

• In Event: From Funding to Futures: How Philanthropy Constructs Educational Landscapes

Abstract

In this paper, we examine how philanthropic research funding influences state and federal educational policy. Using theoretical insights from research impact assessment literature, we developed a tailored data collection strategy to gather and analyze citations in policy documents systematically. We scraped 498 U.S. government websites, identifying 1,315 policy documents connected to the funded research. Our results show varying depth and functions of citations, indicating different levels of integration and use in policy contexts. This study advances understanding of how research affects policy and offers a detailed methodological approach to evaluate the reach and impact of funded research in public policy areas.

Authors

• Samantha Jo Shewchuk, University of Delaware

• Caitlin Farrell, University of Colorado - Boulder

• Elizabeth N. Farley-Ripple, University of Delaware

• Lok-Sze Wong, University of North Texas

• Joel R. Malin, Miami University (OH)

• Jennifer Watling Neal, Michigan State University