Education and international competitiveness

Abstract

Educational reforms are often based on the assumption that education, particularly in STEM areas, is the key to international competitiveness. This is valid to some degree, however, there are many other aspects that contribute to international competitiveness. Additionally, international competitiveness in an age of globalisation is considered by some to be a dated, neoliberal dream reminiscent of Cold War ideologies. Standardised assessment, particularly at the international level, is used to measure competitiveness and rank countries accordingly. Although assessment data at the international level can be useful for countries, particularly when it comes to educational reform and policy decisions, it is arguable that the 'hard' skills measured by these types of assessments are not necessarily the skills that will be useful and valuable to today's (and tomorrow's) learners