Topic 8: Digital education: Innovative data collection and exchange approaches in primary, secondary education (including vocational education and training) for data-informed decision-making

This priority focuses on the key role of data in primary, secondary, and vocational education. Data from learners, teachers, parents, school facilities (such as classroom and laboratories) is used to assess teaching and learning strategies (learning outcomes, teacher performance, test scores, graduation rates, etc.), and ultimately, the success of a school. Data is also used for comparative analytics purposes across districts, regions, and countries, and it also informs decision making concerning legislation, policies, funding, and innovative learning and teaching methods.

However, the methodologies and criteria to aggregate, process, and synthesise educational data differs widely between schools, institutions, regions, and Member States. This makes comparing and synthesising educational data challenging, especially across Member States, and it impedes the development and implementation of comprehensive strategies for educational improvement and policy formulation.

Therefore, the European Commission wants to support forward-looking ideas, projects and activities that contribute to ethical and privacy-centric data collection methods, the facilitation of relevant data exchange, transnational collaboration agreements, the development of advanced and ethical analytical tools and methodologies, and robust data governance frameworks to ensure consistency and accuracy in collecting and analysing educational data.