Public School Metrics investigates how we measure success in public education, questioning if current metrics truly reflect student outcomes and societal needs. It tackles the effectiveness of key performance indicators (KPIs) in education systems, analyzing their impact on policy and student experiences. The book highlights the limitations of relying solely on standardized testing, as it can narrow curriculum and disproportionately affect disadvantaged students, while advocating for broader measures like student well-being and civic engagement.
The book's approach involves a critical overview of various KPIs alongside international comparisons of educational performance. It traces the evolution of standardized testing and its increasing role in educational accountability. By examining international datasets, the book reveals alternative approaches to measuring educational success beyond test scores.
Organized in three sections, the book first introduces fundamental concepts of educational measurement. Then, it delves into international comparisons. Finally, it proposes a new framework incorporating student well-being and workforce readiness, making it a valuable resource for policymakers, educators, and anyone interested in improving public education.
