What does “expected years of schooling” measure?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: The number of years expected to be spent in school by a child of school-entry age.
Explanation –
'Expected Years of Schooling' is a key component of the Human Development Index (HDI). It calculates the amount of time a child of school-going age is expected to spend in school over the course of their entire education, assuming that current enrollment rates remain constant. It reflects future educational prospects.
In contrast, 'Mean Years of Schooling' measures the actual number of years spent in education by adults aged 25 years or older. Both of these indicators are used to calculate the 'Education Index' within the Human Development Report published by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Additional Points:
Option (2) defines 'Mean Years of Schooling' (MYS), which reflects the educational attainment level of the current adult population, whereas Option (3) indicates the educational potential for the future generation.
The Human Development Index (HDI) comprises three main dimensions: 1. A long and healthy life (Life Expectancy), 2. Knowledge, and 3. A decent standard of living (GNI per capita).
According to the 'Human Development Report 2023-24,' India recorded 12.6 years for Expected Years of Schooling and 6.5 years for Mean Years of Schooling.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers:
Question: When and by whom was the 'Human Development Index' (HDI) first developed?
Answer: It was developed in 1990 by the Pakistani economist Mahbub ul Haq and the Indian economist Amartya Sen (and published by the UNDP).