Research Guides: Education: Professional Associations

Professional Associations

In addition to being a way to unite professionals in a profession, professional associations often publish research reports or advocacy papers on topics that fall within their purview. Below are a few examples of professional associations working broadly in education. Look for a menu link to research or publications if information on these topics is not apparent. If they publish a magazine or journal, it is likely behind a "Members Only" wall so search the publication title in the library catalog to get access.

American Association of School Librarians (AASL)
AASL unites school librarians and the school library community.
American Educational Research Association (AERA)
AERA is a national research society that strives to advance knowledge about education, to encourage scholarly inquiry related to education, and to promote the use of research to improve education and serve the public good.
International Literacy Association (ILA)
Formerly the International Reading Association, the International Literacy Association (ILA) is a global advocacy and membership organization with a mission to empower educators, inspire students, and encourage leaders with the resources they need to make literacy accessible for all.
National Art Education Association (NAEA)
NAEA is a professional organization for visual arts educators.
National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)
NASET is dedicated to meeting the needs of special education teachers and those preparing for the field of special education teaching.
National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS)
The NCSS is a professional association devoted solely to social studies education. Its mission is to advocate and build capacity for high-quality social studies by providing leadership, services, and support to educators.
National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)
The NCTE is devoted to improving the teaching and learning of English and the language arts at all levels of education.
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM)
The NCTM advocates for high-quality mathematics teaching and learning for each and every student.
National Education Association (NEA)
The NEA is committed to advancing the cause of public education.
National Science Teaching Association (NSTA)
NSTA is committed to promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all.