Transnational Influence and Educational Policy in Iceland

Abstract

This chapter will outline transnational influence on educational policy in Iceland. During the last few decades, educational policy has emphasised decentralisation and empowerment of schools. At the same time, accountability measures have been implemented, particularly concerning basic schools (ages 6–16). Standardised tests have been administered since 1977. In the last few years, the scores of individual schools have been published in major newspapers. Iceland has participated in PISA since 2000, and PISA results are always discussed in the public media, particularly in relation to scores in other Nordic countries. The discussions of PISA results and outcomes of the standardised tests can be seen as part of the accountability movement, stimulated by the OECD and other transnational forces. Open access and school choice are also often topics of discussion in the Icelandic media, stimulated with new public management ideologies. Moreover, inclusion policies are frequently discussed in the public media, influenced by the Salamanca framework. At present, the public discussions are very focused on financial issues, and the fiscal crisis in Iceland has left many municipalities in a critical financial situation.