Introduction : hopes and promises of policy learning

Abstract

The main theme of this ETF Yearbook revolves around the question: How do the thinking and practices of education reform change in a globalised world? Part 1 presents examples of how the policy learning approach works in situations where international agencies and experts are helping governments to improve their education strategies and practices. The common conclusion is that helping officials in education ministries and other government institutions to craft their own intentions, policies and reform plans is a demanding and complex task that often takes more time and resources than are available. Metaphorically, most governments and international development agencies also have learning difficulties similar to those of students. However, the policy learning philosophy promises improvements in the implementation of the necessary changes as education reforms become rooted in the soil of national culture and traditions.