The Strategic Framework for European Cooperation in Education and Training (ET 2020) aimed to promote the exchange of best practices among the Member States. This paper assesses the performance evolution of European countries in terms of the common objectives for the education sector. The framework
used to evaluate European education systems is based on constructing a composite indicator adopting a
“benefit-of-the-doubt” approach. The evaluation of performance change over time is done using a Global
Malmquist Index. Sigma and beta convergence of EU countries are also explored using non-parametric
frontier techniques. The results are analysed for the period 2009–2018 and discussed in light of the goals
envisaged and the national policies adopted. The results revealed a trend of improvement in the performance of education systems in most European countries in the period analysed. Although most European
countries moved closer to the European best practice frontier over time, as confirmed by the values of
sigma-convergence, a few countries are still lagging considerably below their peers, as revealed by the
existence of divergence in beta.

Shelke Tirumala Kacharu

2 year ago

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