How Geography and Education Policy Intersect

An empty classroom.

CGEP spearheads innovative scholarship at the nexus of geography and education policy to address issues of spatial justice and educational equity. By leveraging geographic information systems (GIS), mixed methods GIS (MMGIS), and qualitative analyses, the Center aims to uncover how the dynamics of place and space influence educational policies and practices. Its mission encompasses providing insights for educational organizations, influencing policy to promote equitable use of educational spaces, and ensuring all students have access to quality education regardless of their geographical location.

At the heart of our work are the guiding principles that geography and education policy are fundamentally intertwined. This intersection affects everything from resource allocation to student outcomes, making it essential to consider geographic context in policymaking. By exploring this relationship, we aim to:

  • Highlight how geographic disparities contribute to educational inequality.
  • Show the importance of spatial analysis in identifying and addressing these disparities.
  • Demonstrate how policies can be designed to mitigate the impact of geographic disadvantage, leading to more equitable educational opportunities.

This exploration is supported by evidence from our research, which illustrates the significant impact of geographic factors on educational access and quality.

Subsections:

Place and education policy

  • At the core of the Center's research is the conviction that place profoundly impacts education policy and its outcomes. The Center examines how geographic context—ranging from urban to rural settings—affects access to resources, quality of education, and policy implementation. This focus on place and education policy highlights the importance of tailoring educational strategies to specific geographic realities, ensuring that policies are effective and equitable across diverse educational landscapes.

School segregation

  • The Center for Geography of Education Policy actively investigates the role of geographic factors in perpetuating school segregation, uncovering how historical and contemporary policies shape educational landscapes. By mapping and analyzing the spatial patterns of segregation, the Center aims to reveal the underlying geographic dynamics that contribute to unequal educational opportunities. This research is crucial for developing policy recommendations that address and mitigate the effects of segregation, fostering more integrated and equitable educational environments.

School choice

  • The Center's work on school choice explores how geographic considerations influence parents' and students' options and choices. By analyzing the spatial distribution of school choice options, such as charter schools, the Center seeks to understand how these choices impact educational equity and access.

Demographic change

  • Understanding demographic changes is essential for anticipating and responding to the evolving needs of educational systems. The Center for Geography of Education Policy examines how shifts in population size, composition, and distribution affect schooling and education policy. This research is critical for planning and implementing policies that adapt to changing demographics, ensuring that educational resources are allocated efficiently and equitably to meet the needs of diverse student populations.