When Pandemics come to call: Differential impacts of COVID-19 on rural schools, children, and families

• In Event: Poster Session 06
  In Poster Session: PS 06 Topic - Education, Schooling

Abstract

Ecological analyses of developmental outcomes represent a rich framework for understanding the impacts of complex, multi-factorial events such as the COVID-19 Pandemic (Lerner et al, 1996). Such events are comprised of multiple layers of influence extending from microsystemic influences such as the local school system response all the way to the manner in which resource distribution is normally distributed based on the written and unwritten rules of the macrosystem level of influence. The present project is utilizing mixed methods approach to understanding the impact of COVID responses and restrictions in rural versus urban settings in Appalachia. A series of individual interviews and focus groups involving public school teachers and administrators will be conducted to collect and aggregate qualitative data regarding the experience of the COVID shutdown on the educational process. A survey is also being prepared to distribute to parents to collect quantitative data on the experience from their perspective. Data will be aggregated and analyzed using a variety of techniques including cluster analysis and multiple regression to provide an enriched snapshot of how groups from varying educational, regional, and socioeconomic backgrounds were impacted by the pandemic and state-level response. Results will be discussed in terms of utilizing an ecological model to understand disparities in impacts of large-scale events across marginalized and disadvantaged groups.

Group Authors

Marshall University Rural Developomental Research Consortium

Authors

• Conrae Lucas Adkins, Marshall University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Rebecca Jennings Knotts, Marshall University
  Presenting Author

• Sandra Stroebel, Marshall University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Marianna Footo Linz, Marshall University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Melissa S Atkins, Marshall University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Lesley Epperly-Cottrell, West Virginia University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Thomas Linz, Marshall university
  Non-Presenting Author