D. Cryer et al., Predicting process quality from structural quality in preschool programs: A cross-country comparison, EARLY C R Q, 14(3), 1999, pp. 339-361
In this cross-national study, the relations between structural and process
quality in preschool classrooms are examined and compared across four count
ries-Germany (n = 82), Portugal (n = 80), Spain (n = 55), and the United St
ates (n = 288). Process quality was assessed using the Early Childhood Envi
ronment Rating Scale and the Caregiver Interaction Scale. Structural qualit
y variables include classroom, center, wage, and regional characteristics.
A MANOVA found differences in levels of structural variables used in the di
fferent countries. Hierarchical regression, in which blocks of structural v
ariables were entered according to their relative proximity to process qual
ity, indicated that despite the diversity of the national systems, many of
the same structural features have an impact on process quality. However, no
one consistently powerful predictor of process quality was found, and ther
e was no single block of variables with an overwhelming influence. The find
ings are viewed in terms of possibilities for improving process quality thr
ough manipulation of structural characteristics.