The purpose of this study is to explore aspects and indicators most commonly used to assess the quality of education systems in different countries through the comparison of 12 national publications describing the state of the educational system.
To compare indicators the CIPP model was chosen. This model is organized in four main parts: Context, Input, Process and Product. Each main part was then divided into categories based on the research literature (e.g., Input is divided into human, financial and material resources).
Based on the CIPP model an electronic database for quality indicators comparison has been designed and implemented. This system is dynamic and easy to update.
Using the database it is possible to compare countries according to several criteria (e.g., main parts and categories of the CIPP model, ISCED level, level of data collection).
The database is available to the public and is designed for researchers and scholastic decision makers.
A first comparison shows that processes at the classroom level are rarely considered, whereas public financial resources as well as achievement results are always included.
The study concludes with a discussion of the findings of the comparison, as well as suggestions for future research aimed at further defining relevant indicators for the assessment of education quality.
Keywords: Educational Indicators, Educational Assessment, Comparative Education, School Statistics, Databases.