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Conflict and Collaboration: Providers and Planners Implementing the Workforce Investment Act (WIA)

    • Workplace Basics

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    This qualitative case study investigated the impact of Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funding on the providers and planners of programs for incumbent workers in one Midwest WIA region. It examines the collaboration and power conflicts that are part of planning and implementing this legislation for the stakeholders. The study applied Matland's ambiguity/conflict framework to WIA implementation. The analysis revealed four themes that are important to policy makers and planners alike. The themes, change agent conflict, power broker conflict, policy interpretation conflict, and ambiguity of means, address the impact of the WIA and related processes on programs for incumbent workers. Conflicts over participants' roles, the interpretation of the legislation, and ambiguity about the process of implementation emerged. This article suggests methods for stakeholders to collaborate and address the needs of incumbent worker development.

    Original languageAmerican English
    JournalAdult Education Quarterly
    Volume59
    DOIs
    StatePublished - May 1 2009

    Keywords

    • Workforce development
    • Adult workforce education
    • Public policy
    • Qualitative study
    • Incumbent workers
    • Workforce Investment Act

    Disciplines

    • Adult and Continuing Education Administration
    • Education
    • Educational Administration and Supervision

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