Cost and learning efficiency drivers in Australian schools: a two-stage network DEA approach. Issue 38 (14th August 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wanke, Peter; Blackburn, Vincent; Barros, Carlos Pestana
• Is Part Of: Applied economics. Volume 48:Issue 38(2016)
• Page Start: 3577
• Page End: 3604
• Publication Date: 2016-08-14
• Subjects: School -- network dea -- Australia -- cost efficiency -- learning efficiency; B23 -- C14 -- C23 -- H52 -- H77; Economics -- Periodicals; 330
• DOI: 10.1080/00036846.2016.1142656
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-6846

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article explore performance issues in Australian public schools, using a two-stage DEA network model, which accounts simultaneously for both cost and learning efficiency levels. In the cost efficiency stage, different types of expenses and investments are employed to support a given number of students, teachers and administrative staff. In the learning efficiency stage, these groups of individuals help to produce important outputs related to performance in student tests and school rankings. Results indicate that Australian public schools are heterogeneous. Policy implications are also discussed.