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Assessing the Validity of the Qualistar Early Learning Quality Rating and Improvement System as a Tool for Improving Child-Care Quality (PDF)
By RAND Corporation , Ed.
2008

Summary: This report presents research that was conducted to assess the validity of the Qualistar Early learning Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) as a tool for improving child care quality in Colorado. The QRIS includes five components that are generally agreed to contribute to high quality care: (1) classroom environment, (2) child-staff ratios, (3) staff and director training and education, (4) parent involvement, and (5) accreditation. Data suggest that much work needs to be done before such systems can be confidently designed and implemented at scale. Findings indicate limited relationships between accreditation status and other measures of quality. The star ratings and the QRIS components were generally unrelated to measures of staff-child interaction. The absence of a strong link between QRIS ratings and improved child outcomes raises the question of whether research and policy should focus on such outcomes or instead emphasize program outputs. Contains 192 references.

Index Terms: Child Care, Outcomes Of Child Care, Quality Of Child Care, Quality Rating System, Research Reports, Teacher Education, Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)

Publication Type: Reports (Research/technical)

Pages: 130 pages
Language: English
URL: http://www.rand.org/pubs/monographs/2008/RAND_MG650.pdf

Availability
RAND Corporation
1776 Main Street
P.O. Box 2138
Santa Monica, California 90407-2138
310-393-0411
FAX: 310-393-4818

 
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