Based on a large scale quantitative text analysis, the paper demonstrates a major shift of emphasis, in the discourse of developing SDG4, from the provision of educational services to the learners and the knowledge they... [ view full abstract ]
Based on a large scale quantitative text analysis, the paper demonstrates a major shift of emphasis, in the discourse of developing SDG4, from the provision of educational services to the learners and the knowledge they acquire. The textual data used were reports, minutes, and statements posted on the Internet, which totaled 1,720 files, with the aim to find patterns in the relationships among frequently used words, such as clusters of ideas and changing trends of discussion
Many observers argue that the fundamental nature of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4), which addresses education, has not changed from the goals of EFA. However, a fundamental change happened with three SDG4 targets. A common characteristic of Targets 4, 6, and 7 is that they shift attention from the provider of educational services to the learner through a commitment to improving the knowledge and skills that learners acquire.
This shift in attention is significant in two ways. First, the perspective of so-called outcome-based or competency-based education not only focuses on learners but also redefines the meaning of knowledge, requiring that it be relevant and adaptable to different contexts. A practical but significant implication of this shift in priorities, which was already a matter of heated discussion in the consultation process toward developing SDG4, is the difficulty of developing measurable and globally comparable indicators of such learning outcomes. Second, and closely related to the first point, the domains of learning outcomes under SDG4 are not restricted by the framework of curricular subjects, but are cross-cutting and broad in nature.
In addition to the significant changes of perspectives in education sector, the presentation will also situate education in the broader framework of SDGs. It is going to demonstrate how education is discussed in relation to other Goals than SDG4, based on the large-sample quantitative text analysis.
