Improving data quality
The UIS has developed several mechanisms to help countries implement sound statistical practices and apply international definitions and standards.
The Data Quality Assessment Framework (DQAF) is designed to improve the quality of national education statistics. It entails an in-depth review of the ways in which a country produces education statistics, as well as an action plan for improvements. The DQAF is primarily being applied in African countries with the help of national statisticians and regional partners, namely UNESCO’s Regional Bureau for Education in Dakar (BREDA) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Data plans are designed to help countries apply international standards when transforming national data into international data that are reported to the UIS. The UIS works closely with national statisticians to precisely document the ways in which national data sources are used to complete the UIS international education survey. The data plan is a living document, designed to ensure that countries can report data consistently over time despite staff turn-over in national statistical offices.
The UIS also regularly organizes training workshops for statisticians on a range of issues related to data collection and use. These statistical experts also provide valuable insight on ways to improve UIS survey instruments and methodologies.
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