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Evidence-Based Policies in Education: Initiatives and Challenges in Europe - Marta Pellegrini, Giuliano Vivanet, 2021 (sagepub.com)
Article Information
Article first published online: May 22, 2020; Issue published: March 1, 2021
Received: November 21, 2019; Accepted: April 15, 2020
Author
Marta Pellegrini
University of Florence
Giuliano Vivanet
University of Cagliari
Abstract
Purpose: This article examines the state of progress of evidence-based educational policies in Europe and identifies organizations for the generation and dissemination of evidence. Further, it discusses some of the most relevant challenges facing the development of evidence-informed education policies in Europe.
Design/Approach/Methods: This article analyzes official documents by the European Commission (EC) and other organizations. Literature in the field of evidence-based education worldwide is examined to identify the primary challenges and issues related to the development of a culture of evidence in Europe’s education sector.
Findings: The EC has recently prioritized evidence-informed policy and practice in education, increasingly encouraging member states to utilize evidence in the policy decision-making process. According to official documents, this process began in 2006 and has since enjoyed remarkable progress through several initiatives intended to spread a culture of evidence in education. However, several challenges and issues remain regarding the promotion of evidence-informed policymaking.
Originality/Value: Having prioritized evidence-informed policy and practice, the EC strongly encourages the adoption of evidence in the policymaking process. This article provides a point of reference regarding the initiatives already undertaken and the challenges facing evidence-based educational policies and policymaking in Europe.
Keywords
Challenges, educational system, European policy, evidence-based policy