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Educational Inequality in Italy: Official Grades vs. Standardized Test Scores

Author

Listed:
  • Raffaele Lagravinese

    (University of Bari)

  • Vito Peragine

    (University of Bari)

  • Giorgia Zotti

    (University of Bari)

Abstract

This study explores the disparities between official high school grades and standardized test scores (Invalsi) among Italian students, drawing on 2022 data from final-year high school students. The analysis reveals that official grades are consistently inflated and show less variability compared to standardized scores, which exhibit greater inequality. Socio-demographic factors such as gender, geographic location, and parental background play a significant role in shaping these disparities. Using a Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition, the study uncovers performance differences linked to gender, origin, and school type, highlighting a narrower grade-score gap among students in northern Italy and those attending Liceo.

Suggested Citation

  • Raffaele Lagravinese & Vito Peragine & Giorgia Zotti, 2024. "Educational Inequality in Italy: Official Grades vs. Standardized Test Scores," SERIES 07-2024, Dipartimento di Economia e Finanza - Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro".
    • Handle: RePEc:bai:series:series_wp_07-2024
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • I24 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Education and Inequality
    • I28 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Government Policy
    • O52 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Europe

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