Data-Based Decision Making in The Netherlands and England: A Comparison

• In Event: Roundtable Session 32
  In Roundtable Session: International Perspectives on Systemic Improvement

Abstract

Data-based decision making is receiving increased attention in education, not only in the USA but also in Europe. This session describes findings from an international comparative study that examined data use by school staff in secondary education in the Netherlands and in England. Eighty-six interviews were conducted in 12 schools in the Netherlands and England. The results show that both in the Netherlands and England vast amounts of data are available, but that the strategies adopted for effective data use are limited. We will highlight the types of data available in both countries, the way these data are used, and how several factors, such as teacher collaboration and support from school leaders, can enable data use in schools.

Authors

• Christopher Downey, University of Southampton

• Kim Schildkamp, Universiteit Twente

• Johanna Ebbeler, Universiteit Twente