Scholarship and Publishing from an Equity Perspective
Revise and Resubmit
Don't let an initial rejection letter deter you from resubmitting your work. Oftentimes researchers assume that because their paper was not immediately published, it is hopeless. Keep in mind that it is very unlikely that an article submitted to a journal will be published without any revisions. So really, you should look at a "Revise and Resubmit" as good news...you are one step closer to publication.
Many scholars do not go back to review the comments or make edits to strengthen the paper. Numerous papers have gone unpublished because the author did not make time to send in their revisions. When you resubmit your article, include a cover letter explaining point-by-point how you addressed the reviewers' suggestions for the manuscript.
Research Methods for Critical Analysis of Qualitative Data
Stay Close to the Data
As you try to make sense of your data, you may look for patterns, but be wary of jumping to conclusions. Be sure to keep a separate file of the connections you make. This allows you to keep track of your thoughts, while also not locking in your data to those connections. Ask yourself what you need to be looking at in relation to X variable. Be clear on your definitions and test the categories you create; you may find you have data that is discrepant to the type of information you have.
Remember that analysis is in what is said and what is not said; who is present and who is absent from the conversation. If you find that there is a mismatch between the research question and the sample, since this is an iterative process, you can choose to (1) gather more data or (2) change the research question. Be sure to acknowledge and document your steps in your methodology.
Research Methods for Critical Analysis of Quantitative Data
Knowing Your Tools
Quantitative research ought to be theoretically driven. Be careful to not let the sophistication of advanced quantitative methods distract you from the theory underlying your research. Also, remember that education policies and practices rest upon underlying assumptions about causal relationships. As quantitative researchers interested in equity, it is our responsibility to: (1) identify these implicit causal claims; and (2) use appropriate statistical methods to questions these assumptions.
Advanced statistical techniques like SEM and HLM can and should be used to challenge prevailing notions about equity in American education. In this way, quantitative methods are not at odds with critical research. For example, don’t assume that processes operate in the same way for individuals from different racial/ethnic backgrounds. Instead, question assumptions and existing models, and then test them using quantitative methods.
Principles and Methods of Participatory Critical Action Research
Doing Action Research
When you do action research, be mindful of the types of language that would inhibit or enable critical work. Know that data is a powerful tool for helping to generate dialogue. Get a sense of the espoused values of the institution you are working with. Invite those whose job is to do this type of work to be a part of the action inquiry team. Be intentional about providing a framework leading to a "culture of inquiry" where people don't just accept but inquire about the issue. As you do this type of work, be conscious of your role as someone who helps to facilitate the inquiry process and not as one with the answers, bringing a solution to the table.
Critical Policy Research and Analysis
Know Your Audience
Remember that just because a policy uses race-neutral language does not mean that it is color blind or fair. A critical framework can help you communicate this to your audience. Don't overlook the different perspectives of different audiences. Understanding your particular audience's interests and world views can help you frame an issue in a manner that speaks to their interests and make you more effective. Communication requires the ability to know what aspects of an issue you may need to reassure people of while being able to emphasize aspects that may have been overlooked. Remember that the "right" and "necessary" thing to do are not always at odds; it is important to stay in the game while you can still make a difference. And keep an eye out for allies, they may come from unsuspected places!
