Evaluating Interagency Coordination Efforts Using a Multidimensional, Interactional, Developmental Paradigm

Abstract

Evaluation of interagency coordination is difficult due to the complexity of these efforts. This article provides a paradigm which describes interagency coordination as a multidimensional, interactional, and developmental effort. Five dimensions–climate, resources, policies, people, and process–are identified and defined. The developmental nature of these dimensions is explained through the use of developmental stages and developmental continua. The interactional nature is illustrated through examples. This paradigm can be used in special education as a training tool for those involved in coordination efforts, as a guide for the development and evaluation of interagency coordination efforts, and as a conceptual framework for research.