Education Policy and Strategy Simulation

A simulation model is a tool par excellence for strategic and sector-wide planning. It is used to test the viability of an education policy and strategy, and to propose alternatives that can help cope with dynamic and changing environments. Scenario planning in education is a non-predictive means of examining a variety of possible futures either for the development of the whole education system or specific issues of interest.

The simulation method is widely used as a strategic planning and management tool allowing for evidence-based policy dialogue. The scenarios, designed as results of a long process of trial and error by taking into consideration the policy options, the technical feasibilities as well as the financial constraints, feed into constructive policy and social consultations about a common future.

Simulation contributes to ensuring holistic educational development, coherence in the development of sub-sectors, and a better understanding of the implications of particular policies and strategies, by facilitating the projection of pedagogical and institutional inputs, as well as the financial resources which these imply.