Policies

The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA)

Context and Issue

Before the advent of the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), there was a significant lack of comprehensive, comparative data on student performance globally. This absence of data made it challenging for policymakers to evaluate and improve their educational systems effectively. Recognizing this gap, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) launched PISA to provide a reliable benchmark for assessing the knowledge and skills of 15-year-old students across different countries. The primary goal was to measure students' readiness for adult life in a globalized, knowledge-based society, focusing on their ability to apply knowledge in reading, mathematics, and science to real-world problems.

Solution

PISA established a triennial survey that assesses the knowledge and skills of 15-year-old students in reading, mathematics, and science across participating countries. This framework focuses on students' ability to apply their knowledge in real-life contexts, thus providing a comprehensive measure of their preparedness for adult life in a globalized, knowledge-based society. PISA uses standardized tests to ensure comparability of results across different countries and educational systems. The tests are designed to be culturally neutral and focus on problem-solving and critical thinking skills, rather than rote memorization. PISA collects extensive data on student performance, attitudes, and socio-economic backgrounds through tests and questionnaires. This data is then analyzed to identify trends, strengths, and weaknesses in educational systems, and to understand the factors that influence student outcomes. The results of PISA provide benchmarks for student performance internationally, helping countries to evaluate their educational systems against global standards and identify areas for improvement.

Impact

The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), managed by the OECD, has garnered global acceptance for its comprehensive assessment of educational systems, reflecting its wide influence and credibility. In 2022, PISA saw participation from 81 countries, highlighting its expansive reach and the trust placed in its results by educational authorities worldwide. PISA's ability to provide detailed insights into student performance across different nations makes it a vital tool for benchmarking and guiding educational reforms globally.

The impact of PISA extends across numerous aspects of education policy and reform. Its results are widely regarded as valid and reliable indicators of students' abilities in reading, mathematics, and science, leading to significant policy discussions and reforms in participating countries. For instance, Germany experienced a 'PISA shock' following its lower-than-expected results in 2000, prompting substantial reforms, including the implementation of national standards and enhanced support for disadvantaged students. Similarly, Japan responded to a decline in PISA performance in 2003 by reversing its low-pressure curriculum policy and making substantial changes to its national assessment practices.

Additionally, the World Bank has actively utilized PISA results to inform and justify its education projects. For example, the Moldova Education Reform Project cited low performance in PISA 2009 as a key rationale for the initiative. In Jordan, the Education Reform for the Knowledge Economy (ERfKE) project used PISA and TIMSS results to benchmark and revise curricula, establish performance standards, and improve teacher training. This demonstrates how PISA data not only influences national education policies but also supports international development efforts by organizations like the World Bank, aiming to enhance educational quality and equity worldwide.

Analysis

The effectiveness of PISA depends on how well countries can interpret and implement the data, address inherent challenges, and sustain the reforms over time. Policymakers in middle-income countries should focus on building the necessary capacities for data utilization, adopting a holistic approach to education, ensuring the sustainability of reforms, and promoting equity and inclusivity in their educational systems. By doing so, they can maximize the benefits of participating in PISA and improve their educational outcomes.