Assimilation or Transformation?: An Analysis of Change in Ten Secondary Science Teachers Following an Inquiry-Based Research Experience for Teachers

• Other Authors: Blanchard, Carrie, 1981- (authoraut)
• Format: Others
• Language: English; English
• Published: Florida State University
• Subjects: Public policy; Public administration
• Online Access: http://purl.flvc.org/fsu/fd/FSU_migr_etd-3660

This dissertation examines the role of agency in county level decision making regarding Wal-Mart development within Florida counties. Framed by the theories of principal-agent, local government decision making and open systems this research examines key factors that influence a decision to allow or disallow a Wal-Mart. The method Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) is employed to both theory test and theory build around the factors of agency, with the findings demonstrating that county poverty rates and staff recommendation are significant factors in a decision to allow a Wal-Mart. === A Dissertation submitted to the Department of Middle and Secondary Education in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. === Summer Semester, 2006. === June 14, 2006. === Local Government, QCA, Agency, Decision Making === Includes bibliographical references. === Nancy T. Davis, Professor Directing Dissertation; J. Anthony Stallins, Outside Committee Member; Penny J. Gilmer, Committee Member; Sherry A. Southerland, Committee Member.