A Sense-Making Perspective on Policy Implementation in New Zealand System-Wide Initiatives

• In Event: Roundtable Session 19
  In Roundtable Session: Informing Policy Through Innovative Approaches

Abstract

In the context of system-level reform in New Zealand, the policy implementer’s role commonly involves decisions about the relative emphasis of different aspects of project design. Investigating the sense-making process of policy implementers provides a means of identifying what is important in design and implementation in successful initiatives. Analysis of documents and interview data from four system-wide projects identified three common features of successful approaches to policy implementation: the use of interrelated pedagogical tools; the role of external expertise and leadership; and the integration of research policy and practice in an ongoing cycle of improvement. The findings have implications for the improvement of education outcomes for students, particularly Maori (indigenous) and Pasifika students from lower socio-economic groups.

Authors

• Joanna Higgins, Victoria University of Wellington

• Rosanne Mary Parsons, Education Review Office