The dataset used in our analysis is the 2006 "Programme for Internafional
Student Assessment" (PISA). The PISA is an internationally standardized assessment
administered to 15-year-olds in schools. The 2006 assessment was the third edition
(after 2000 and 2003) and included 57 counfiries (30 OECD members and 27 parfiier
ecohomies). PISA collects information on the performance of students in three
fieids of competence (reading, mathematics and science). Results were initially set
using a scale with an average score of 500 and a standard deviation of 100 for each
competence. In addition, students complete a questionnaire about their approaches to
learning and their family characteristics. School principals also report on their school's
characteristics and their management procedures. In some countries, including Korea,
students also fill in a questionnaire on their familiarity with ICT and the students'
parents provide more detailed information about the household through the parent
questionnaire