Studying Education Policy Implementation: How Researchers and Practitioners Can Gain Clarity on Structures and Contexts Shaping Implementation

Abstract

This chapter delves into concepts from the fields of policy analysis and implementation science to reveal the importance of attending to policy instruments and contextual factors while studying the effectiveness of education policies. In particular, the authors elucidate how researchers can examine policy structures, organizational actors, and contextual conditions influencing the trajectory of implementation. Within this, the authors argue that researchers should interrogate a policy’s theory of change and context for policy implementation. Further, researchers should find ways to partner with practitioners and policymakers to more deeply understand contextual factors as well as the policy’s intended theory of change. To support these points, the authors elevate partnership approaches to education policy implementation research. They provide guidance for future implementation studies that can advance crucial, equitable systems change.

Keywords: policy implementation; policy instruments; policy design; research-practice partnership research