This study compares the literacy and numeracy proficiencies of higher education (HE) degree holders in 21 OECD countries based on primary analysis of the national data sets collected via the OECD's Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) 2012 study. The differences in the graduates' average literacy and numeracy…

The PISA survey influences educational policies through an international competitive process which is not wholly rationally-oriented. Firstly, PISA league tables act normatively upon the definition of formal educational aims while the survey tests cannot evaluate the educational systems' relative strengths with regards to such aims. We argue that…

In his article "Globalisation, the Learning Society, and Comparative Education", Peter Jarvis recommends lifelong learning in the period of globalisation as a topic ripe for scholarly research. In particular, he argues for the examination of the extent of lifelong learning around the world and its relation to different levels of…

In many countries around the world there is a current focus on the restructuring of education systems in a bid to increase the "quality" of the educational experience for pupils in order to raise their academic achievement. However, the definition of quality as expressed through policy may not always accord with the aims and aspirations…

Contrasts historical cases in Western countries concerning the idea that ordinary rural primary school teachers can play an important role as "animateurs"--leaders in rural development activities. Reveals no historical evidence to support the idea that teachers can stimulate rural development. (AH)

Surveys of approximately 1,800 students aged 12-13 in England, France, and Denmark and in-depth study of 18 students in each country found "constants" in pupil concerns about education's link to work, teacher respect for students, and interesting teaching; and national differences in students' school attitudes, importance of…