Expanding Downward: Innovation, Diffusion, and State Policy Adoptions of Universal Preschool

Authors

  • F. Chris Curran Vanderbilt University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.v23.1688

Keywords:

universal preschool, early childhood, event history analysis, policy adoption, diffusion

Abstract

Framed within the theoretical framework of policy innovation and diffusion, this study explores both interstate (diffusion) and intrastate predictors of adoption of state universal preschool policies. Event history analysis methodology is applied to a state level dataset drawn from the Census, the NCES Common Core, the Book of the States, and other sources. Significant predictors of policy adoption include greater Democratic control of the state legislature and the prolonged presence of a targeted preschool program. Regional proximity is not found to be a significant predictor of policy adoption. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.

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Author Biography

F. Chris Curran, Vanderbilt University

F. Chris Curran is a pre-doctoral fellow in Leadership and Policy Studies at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College. His research examines school discipline, teacher labor markets, and early childhood education. Beginning in the fall of 2015, he will assume the role of Assistant Professor of Public Policy at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

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Published

2015-03-23

How to Cite

Curran, F. C. (2015). Expanding Downward: Innovation, Diffusion, and State Policy Adoptions of Universal Preschool. Education Policy Analysis Archives, 23, 36. https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.v23.1688

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Section

Articles