ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the factors that influence the selection of particular indicators as components of an indicator system, and derives a general set of principles that would make the selection process more systematic. It starts with a clarification of the term 'indicator', and considers what may be learnt from the history of indicator systems in other fields. The chapter looks at the major considerations that govern the selection process and at how they have been embodied in lists of criteria proposed by workers in the filed, before proposing such a set for use with educational indicators. It describes and analyzes the cluster of interacting factors that influence the development of an indicator system. These factors are: policy considerations, research knowledge, technical considerations, practical considerations, and the 'choosers' — those in a position to influence the choice and development of indicators.
