Disparate ladders

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This study explores how political factors influenced the development of distinct secondary and higher education structures in three countries known for their strong education systems. The variations in their educational "ladders" arise from differing methods and timing of student selection for further educational opportunities, both among the nations and within the German and Swiss federal systems. The comparative analysis positions Japan's educational trajectory against European developments while highlighting its unique characteristics. Heidenheimer emphasizes the relationships between various educational system levels and government tiers, employing integrated comparative analysis to examine national school and university types regarding permeability, administrative oversight, curricula, and examination practices. By contrasting the policy-making processes of political parties and bureaucracies, the study clarifies how certain innovations became contentious issues at national and regional levels. Through detailed case analyses, it investigates why specific secondary school policies faced significant challenges across all three countries, despite their differing political institutions. Heidenheimer also discusses why German "Länder" retain control over the university sector, while both centralized Japan and decentralized Switzerland have national governments managing key university components. Additionally, the study address