International benchmarking

Definition: A large variety of different measurement and evaluation technologies which have been collected with one single aim: the improvement of organizational performance. Benchmarking can be conducted using a case study approach or through performance indicators. International indicators provide an opportunity to compare a country performance with that of other countries, to identify similarities and differences between one system and others, and to suggest new approaches to the challenge of providing a world-class education. (Source: Wyatt 2004). Policy debates and decision-making processes with regard to the curriculum increasingly refer to international benchmarks or the need to benchmark to international standards as a tool to ensure high quality, effectiveness and accountability and achieve a world-class education system. While evidence from international comparisons is certainly useful to inform national policies, most researchers and analysts recommend being cautious in interpreting the success of others.

Source: IBE (2013). Glossary of curriculum terminology, IBE-UNESCO. 

Hyperlink: http://www.ibe.unesco.org/fileadmin/user_upload/Publications/IBE_GlossaryCurriculumTerminology2013_eng.pdf