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=EPSSim= EPSSim stands for Education Policy and Strategy Simulation model

History
EPSSim, created by UNESCO in 2001 as a ‘generic’ simulation model, and evolved later on in different versions, is designed to target, first of all, the ministries of education (different departments including planning, finance and personnel), and also research institutes and universities, in order to support them in the formulation of credible education development policies and plans, in line with the Education for All (EFA) criteria.

What is an education simulation model?
A simulation model is a tool par excellence for strategic and sector-wide planning as it can be used to test the viability of an education policy and strategy and propose alternatives to cope with dynamic and changing environments. Scenario planning in education is a non-predictive means of examining a variety of possible futures either for the development of the whole education system or specific areas. The simulation method is widely used as a strategic planning and management tool allowing for evidence-based policy dialogue. The tried and tested scenarios which take into account policy options and technical feasibilities as well as the financial constraints, feed into constructive policy and social consultations about a common future. Simulation contributes to ensuring holistic educational development, coherence in the development of sub-sectors and a better understanding of the implications, financial and otherwise, of policies and strategies.

What is EPSSim?
EPSSim is used as a demonstration and training tool. This “generic” model also serves with a minimum adaptation for testing the feasibility of the education policy of a given country. This model needs careful restructuring if one wishes to use it for designing a detailed action plan. EPSSim is primarily used in the full process of national planning, aimed to design credible medium and long-term education policies, strategies, and/or detailed action plans, enabling to test the viability of education policy and strategy options, to devise alternatives that can help cope with dynamic and changing environments, to indicate necessary actions and resources required, as well as to provide monitoring and evaluation indicators.

Versions
EPSSim V2.8 was released by UNESCO in 2008, in collaboration with UNDP and UNICEF, to design a UN-wide tool in supporting national educational planning process.

Methodology
All simulations in EPSSim are carried out by education level (pre-primary through to higher education, including non-formal), each level being conveniently placed in a worksheet, by category of system inputs/ingredients (pupils, teachers, material and infrastructure), by gender, and by owner (private vs. private), with necessary linkages between them. For the sake of convenience, cost projections related to these simulations are presented separately in a single worksheet. Furthermore, the model proposes a number of exercises, modules and utilities on educational planning and policy simulation. To this end, some macros are utilized.