Class ranking of secondary schools in the North West province of South Africa

  • G Kent North-West University Potchefstroom
  • HA Kruger North-West University Potchefstroom
  • JV du Toit North-West University Potchefstroom

Abstract

The education system in South Africa finds itself in a dismal position. Existing research reports and general news bulletins suggest that schools in South Africa suffer from a general lack of efficiency measures and therefore underperform in comparison with those in other countries. This paper proposes a class-ranking technique as a means to evaluate schools. The technique implements Pareto optimality principles and utilises a mathematical model that is based on output variables (e.g. pass rates) only. The model also provides for the construction of a step-by-step improvement plan for underperforming schools. The suggested framework was applied to 54 secondary schools in one of the four major municipal districts in the North West province of South Africa. Results are contrasted with the application of an ordinary DEA model that is based on input and output variables and showed that the suggested approach offers a more reliable alternative to evaluate, monitor and improve the performance of schools ranked as inefficient.

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Author Biographies

G Kent, North-West University Potchefstroom
School of Computer, Statistical and Mathematical Sciences
HA Kruger, North-West University Potchefstroom
School of Computer, Statistical and Mathematical Sciences
JV du Toit, North-West University Potchefstroom
School of Computer, Statistical and Mathematical Sciences
Published
2016-12-08
Section
Research Articles