PISAtesten

PISAtesten, the local spelling of PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment), is an international evaluation coordinated by the OECD. It tests 15-year-old students in reading literacy, mathematical literacy, and scientific literacy. Conducted every three years since 2000, the assessment also collects background information through questionnaires to help explain differences in performance. The aim is to evaluate education systems rather than to rank individual students, and results are used by governments to compare policy approaches and monitor progress over time.

Methodology and scope: In each participating country, a representative sample of schools and students is selected. Students take a standardized test, while schools and students complete questionnaires about learning environments, socio-economic status, and school resources. Results are reported as scale scores and, where appropriate, proficiency levels for each domain. Cross-national comparisons are published and accompanied by contextual analyses to support interpretation.

Impact and considerations: PISAtesten is widely used to inform education policy and reform, identify strengths and weaknesses, and benchmark performance over time. Critics note challenges in cross-cultural comparability, translation, and the risk of encouraging teaching to the test. Limitations include its focus on 15-year-olds and a subset of domains, which may not capture all aspects of education. Data from PISAtesten contribute to policy discussion, equity analyses, and international benchmarking.