Comparing Learning Outcomes provides an insider's look at the policy and practical issues in conducting and using the information from international assessments of education and is a key resource for researchers and policymakers in education. This book covers a variety of important topics related to international comparative assessment including: * History of international assessment, the factors contributing to its growth and the impacts of such growth * What it means to assess different domains * How information form international assessments has been used by policy makers in different countries * Technical considerations in analysing and using assessment data. Reflecting the increasing involvement of policy makers in the field of international education assessment Comparing Learning Outcomes brings together the collaborative research of professionals in 11 countries working on a project for the OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development), gathering cross-national, comparative information on education for use for governments.

National education systems are under increasing pressure not only to demonstrate effectiveness through results, but also to compare favourably with those of other countries. New forms of assessment and evaluation, that are internationally comparative, have therefore come to be a major influence upon the development of education policy.

Comparing Student Achievement brings together reports of cross-national research into a range of key education issues, including gender difference in achievement and improving literacy. Written by researchers from eleven different countries, these accounts illustrate how international comparative assessment has moved away from being an academic research exercise to become a vital tool in the shaping and implementation of education policy. The accounts offer clear guidance on conducting different forms of international comparative research and valuable suggestions for new directions in such research.

eBook available with sample pages: 0203403568