From Data to Decisions: Rethinking Classroom Observation Metrics for Effective Education Reform in Punjab, Pakistan

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 12:40 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: Innovative Methods, Measures, and Theories for Educational Policy Research and Evaluation (Table 8)

Abstract

Despite numerous reform programs, educational outcomes in Punjab, Pakistan remain poor, especially for the nearly 12 million students in public schools. Substantial investments have been made to monitor public schools, including a system collecting live classroom observation data from all provincial primary schools. However, this data is underutilized for management, policymaking, and teacher training. This study assesses the accuracy of the quantitative data in reflecting actual situations. Initial findings suggest that high and low observation scores correlate with similar in-classroom experiences, indicating the scores may not fully capture teaching practices. This underscores the need to review the indicators and the investment in the system to effectively support improved classroom practices in one of the world's largest public-school systems.

Authors

• Farah Nadeem, Lahore University of Management Sciences

• Jessica C. Albrent, Lahore University of Management Sciences

• Mehak Fatima, Lahore University of Management Sciences

• Yassal Arif, Lahore University of Management Sciences

• Sana E. Zahra, Lahore University of Management Sciences

• Areej Mahmood, Lahore University of Management Sciences