A call for QuantCrit methodologies: Unpacking the need for a critical lens in school psychology research

Stephanie D'Costa; Stephanie Grant; Tara Kulkarni; Adrianna Crossing; Miranda Zahn; Marie L. Tanaka

doi:10.1177/01430343231202753

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A call for QuantCrit methodologies: Unpacking the need for a critical lens in school psychology research

Journal article

Peer reviewed

A call for QuantCrit methodologies: Unpacking the need for a critical lens in school psychology research

Stephanie D'Costa, Stephanie Grant, Tara Kulkarni, Adrianna Crossing, Miranda Zahn and Marie L. Tanaka

School psychology international, Vol.45(3), pp.254-279

06/01/2024

DOI: 10.1177/01430343231202753

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Abstract

School psychology has heavily relied on quantitative methodology to create and sustain our knowledge of best practices regarding academic, behavioral, and mental health outcomes for students. Nevertheless, underlying assumptions of the neutrality of quantitative data have obfuscated how school psychology research has perpetuated oppressive ideologies and practices, which directly harm students from marginalized identities. This paper demonstrates the need for employing a critical lens when engaging in and consuming school psychology research that utilizes quantitative methods. One such framework is QuantCrit, developed in the United Kingdom, which intentionally integrates Critical Race Theory tenets into the development, analysis, and interpretation of quantitative data. We explore specific examples of the insidious ways that 'presumed neutral' quantitative approaches have led to the perpetuation of oppressive practices in the following key areas of school psychology research: (a) discipline disproportionality, (b) special education disproportionality, and (c) school accountability metrics. Furthermore, we provide recommendations for both utilizing and publishing quantitative research that moves school psychologists towards more equitable practices for children and families across the globe.

Psychology

Social Sciences

Psychology, Educational

Details

Title: Subtitle: A call for QuantCrit methodologies: Unpacking the need for a critical lens in school psychology research
Creators: Stephanie D'Costa - Saint Mary's College of California
Stephanie Grant - Xavier University of Louisiana
Tara Kulkarni - California State University, Monterey Bay
Adrianna Crossing - Northeastern University
Miranda Zahn - University of South Dakota
Marie L. Tanaka - University of Arizona
Resource Type: Journal article
Publication Details: School psychology international, Vol.45(3), pp.254-279
DOI: 10.1177/01430343231202753
ISSN: 0143-0343
eISSN: 1461-7374
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Number of pages: 26
Language: English
Date published: 06/01/2024
Academic Unit: Psychological and Quantitative Foundations
Record Identifier: 9984701723502771

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