Investigating the Relationship Between School-Level Accountability and Science Achievement Across Four Countries: Australia, Korea, Portugal, and the United States

• In Event: Poster Session 8
  In Poster Session: Mathematics, Science, and Accountability

Abstract

Science education is critical to the development of knowledge and skills that countries require for economic development. In order to improve the quality and equity of science education, many countries have adopted or are considering adopting new standards and consequent accountability systems. However, the relationship between accountability and achievement in science is not clear or conclusive. In this study, we explore the relation between school accountability and science achievement using school- and student-level data from four countries. The methods of inquiry are quantitative, but the results will be interpreted in the context of national-level accountability systems and educational or scientific policies. Ultimately, the goal is to provide recommendations on which accountability practices should be fostered by national-level policies, and how.

Authors

• Fernanda Gandara, University of Massachusetts - Amherst

• Jennifer Randall, University of Massachusetts