The National Student Clearinghouse has ended its long-standing partnership with Tufts University researchers who have studied college students’ voting habits since 2013 using the organization’s data. The decision comes under unspecified pressure, potentially disrupting ongoing research into student civic engagement. The article, published by Inside Higher Ed, highlights concerns over data access for academic studies in higher education.
Key Points
- Partnership between Tufts University and National Student Clearinghouse for student voting data lasted since 2013.
- Clearinghouse is severing the relationship due to external pressure.
- This move could impact future research on college students’ voting patterns.
Implications for Educational Freedom
This development may signal potential government or institutional overreach in higher education data access, limiting academic freedom and research on student civic participation. However, it has no direct implications for K-12 school choice, ESAs, vouchers, or parental rights.
Source: Under Pressure, Clearinghouse Severs Relationship With Student Voting Study
