Study of the determinants of efficiency applying Hierarchical Linear Models in the assessment PISA 2006: the case of Spain

Abstract

This paper connects Spanish students performance in science in PISA 2006 with indicators of students, teachers and institutions associated to the educational production function (Hanushek, 1989) and, consequently, with the efficiency of the educational system. The analysis has been carried out by means of multilevel analysis; this technique is appropriate for the study of hierarchical data structures, as is the case for educational information. In light of the information provided it is possible to demonstrate a relationship between resources variables, both in the student's level (for example educational resources, cultural possessions in home) and at the school level (for example ownership, computers) with the academic performance.