The Research Engagement and Development with Youth (READY) Program showcases the work of high school youth who are using research tools to answer critical questions about education. It also aims to cultivate youth researchers’ knowledge of and interest in the field of education research. READY builds upon AERA’s commitment to advancing the field by encouraging and supporting systematic inquiry and evidence-based analysis related to education and to engaging youth in ways that have the potential to shape and expand the next generation of talent in education research.
Teams of youth researchers that are selected to participate in this program present their work at the AERA Annual Meeting in a high profile, featured poster session. During the Annual Meeting, READY teams participate in a workshop that includes panel discussions, featured speakers, informal networking, and roundtable conversations with senior scholars. In addition, program participants attend a selected set of Annual Meeting sessions and events. The READY Program, formerly known as YTER (Youth Teams in Education Research), offers a unique opportunity for high school youth to share their research with a broad audience of Annual Meeting attendees and to engage with peers and accomplished scholars who share their interest in using research to address important questions related to education and learning.
To learn more about the most recent READY program please read the May 2025 AERA Highlights article.