Testing Baldridge's Political Model: A Case Study of the Asian American Studies Program at the University of Maryland, College Park

Abstract

ABSTRACT Title of dissertation: TESTING BALDRIDGE'S POLITICAL MODEL: A CASE STUDY OF THE ASIAN AMERICAN STUDIES PROGRAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK Sally Anne McCarthy, Doctor of Philosophy, 2005

Dissertation directed by: Professor Betty Malen Department of Education Policy and Leadership

The purpose of this research was to investigate the dynamics surrounding campus policy making related to diversity issues and new academic programs. This study was anchored in conceptual ideas that liken university policy making to political processes. The study sought to answer the over arching research question: How does Baldridge's (1971) political model of university policy making apply to one campus policy process addressing diversity issues? The research employed a qualitative case method as a means to answer the research question. Specifically, the study examined the creation and enactment of the Asian American Studies Program (AASP) at the University of Maryland, College Park (UMCP). Data collection drew from an informant interview process and was supported by document review. Data were systematically analyzed against the conceptual framework, presented in a case narrative, discussed in light of related literature, and assessed in terms of their relevance to theory. The study generated analytic conclusions about the political nature of one campus's policy and programmatic decisions to support Asian American Studies. This research also generated new data regarding decision making around diversity issues and the role of students of color on campus, which are salient issues on college campuses today.