The Unique Role of Non-University Research Centers in the Study of Educational Equity

Session Type: Invited Speaker Session

Abstract

Non-university research centers are sometimes thought of as unable or unwilling to tackle divisive social and political issues. Research on equity in particular has been avoided by many government contractors because of concerns that it is partisan, unscientific advocacy. The panelists in this session will discuss the critical role that their institutions can play in bringing rigorous social science methodology to one of education’s most intractable problems. Topics will include differences in capacity for large-scale research and technical assistance, willingness to form partnerships, perspectives on ownership of ideas, academic freedom, and the pace of progress. Specific areas of research, such as school funding and the pipeline of researchers will also be addressed.

Sub Unit

• AERA Presidential Session

Chair

• David Silver, RTI International

Participants

• Kathleen M. Shaw, Research for Action

• Peter Willis Cookson, American Institutes for Research

• David Silver, RTI International

• Ash Vasudeva, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

• Zakia Redd, Child Trends

• Rose Owens-West, WestEd

• Denise Glyn Borders, SRI International