Effects of a Business Management Course on Childcare Program Leaders' Outcomes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

• In Event: Effective Leadership for Early Childhood Programs

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated child care shortages. To ensure a strong supply of high-quality early care and education (ECE) programs for all children and families, supporting leaders on the business functions of ECE programs can be an effective strategy. Using a randomized controlled trial (RCT), this study evaluated the effectiveness of a business management course (BMC) for ECE program leaders serving under resourced communities. Half the sample was randomly assigned to the BMC intervention group and received a 14-week training. After controlling for the pre-test scores, perceived business management skills and confidence in business practices were higher among the BMC participants than those in the control group. This study provides insights into efforts to improve the sustainability of ECE programs.

Authors

• Yujin Lee, University of Massachusetts - Boston
  Presenting Author

• Anne Douglass, University of Massachusetts - Boston
  Presenting Author

• Becky DelVecchio, University of Massachusetts - Boston
  Non-Presenting Author

• Songtian Zeng, University of Massachusetts - Boston
  Presenting Author

• Lynne Mendes, University of Massachusetts - Boston
  Non-Presenting Author