Predicting process quality from structural quality in preschool programs: A cross-country comparison

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.