Selected Organizations and Resources in Education Policy and Management
The websites of associations or research centers working in your area can be useful sources of "gray literature." Usually some content is freely available, while other content may be limited to members with logins.
- CATO InstituteDedicated to the principles of individual liberty and limited government. Conducts research on a wide range of education and other policy issues.
- Center for American ProgressA think tank dedicated to improving the lives of Americans through progressive ideas and actions.
- Center on Education PolicyAdvocates for public education and effective schools.
- Common Core State Standards InitiativeSeeks to provide a clear understanding of what students are expected to learn to prepare for their future.
- Consortium for Policy Research in Education (CPRE)Analysts from major research universities whose goal is to improve PK-20 education by bridging the gap between educational policy and student learning.
- Council of Chief State School OfficersProvides leadership, advocacy and technical assistance on major educational issues.
- CRS ReportsThe Congressional Research Service (CRS) works exclusively for the United States Congress, providing policy and legal analysis to committees and Members of both the House and Senate, regardless of party affiliation.
- Education Commission of the StatesAn interstate compact for the exchange ideas on education policy
- Education TrustWorks to close achievement gaps at all levels, pre-k through college.
- Heritage FoundationPromotes state authority over educational policy and school choice.
- Rand EducationMission is to bring accurate data and objective analysis to education policy.
- U.S. Department of Education - Policy InformationProvides information on federal role on education legislation, regulations and policy.
Finding and Evaluating Gray Literature
What is Gray Literature?
Generally gray literature is a work that is either informally published, or published by a non-commercial enterprise, such as an association, academic institution, or government agency. Gray literature includes reports, conference proceedings, research papers, dissertations and more.
Where to find Gray Literature?
• Organization websites – Look for tabs or links to Reports, Research, Publications or Resources.
• Use Google (not Google Scholar) -- Advanced Google Search allows you to get more focused results. Use exact phrase searching, limits to geographic regions or website domain ("org" or "gov"), and more.
How to Evaluate Gray Literature?
• Is the information from a reputable source? If it is unfamiliar, read the “About Us” section, and review the institutional affiliation of any members.
• What is the purpose of the organization or agency? Do they have an agenda, bias or commercial interest? Look for a mission statement.
• Is the information or research accurate and valid? Does information from other sources that you have read support or confirm the research?
• Is the information current or out-of-date?
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