Policy Implementation beyond the Management of Change: A Case Study in Managing the Policy Process.

Using the 1981 Education Act of England and Wales as a case study, this paper develops a conceptual framework of education legislation as a significant reference point in the process of negotiation and bargaining that initiates legislation and continues throughout the period of policy implementation. A model of the policy process and the management of change must consider the impact of structural factors, the powers and duties of local authorities, and the influence of varying government policies together with the influence of local factors. A chart illustrates the dimensions and stages involved as new policies in special education emerged and were modified, clarified, and implemented from 1970-85. The bargaining power of groups affected by policy implementation is part of the wider structure of power relationships within central and local governments and local level agencies. Special education policy is realized by the actions of individual workers with implementive authority--doctors, teachers, psychologists--who together with local administrators make decisions about the way in which children's special needs are defined and met. This "action focus" approach considers the influence of the structure and context within which diverse interests operate. Twenty-five references are appended. (CJH)