THE POLITICAL USES OF PASEC DATA IN FRANCOPHONE SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

Prepublication

Abstract

This literature review is situated within the context of evidence-based educational policies, particularly the use of large-scale learning assessment data in policy decision-making. In Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa, the Programme d’analyse des systèmes éducatifs de la CONFEMEN (PASEC) constitutes a central mechanism for producing comparable data on student learning outcomes. However, the production of such data does not guarantee their effective use in policy decision-making processes. PASEC data take two forms, including published reports and raw datasets. This literature review identifies documented cases of policy use of these different forms of data and provides a critical analysis of their appropriation dynamics. It highlights several findings, including selective and partial use of the data by policy decision-makers, challenges related to data appropriation, and the financial, technical, and institutional constraints that limit their use, thereby contributing to the advancement of knowledge in this field of research.