In its 2018 cycle of data collection among 15-year-old students, the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) assessed the global competences needed to live in our interconnected and changing world. Global competence is defined as a multidimensional capacity that encompasses the ability to:
1) examine issues of local, global and cultural significance;
2) understand and appreciate the perspectives and worldviews of others;
3) engage in open, appropriate and effective interactions across cultures; and
4) take action for collective well-being and sustainable development.

The PISA 2018 global competence assessment relied on two instruments:
1) a cognitive test focused on the cognitive aspects, including knowledge and cognitive skills; and
2) a set of questionnaire items collecting self-reported information from students, parents, teachers and school principals.

The questionnaire covers students’ attitudes, knowledge and skills, learning opportunities at school, the existence of a dedicated curriculum and information from schools, teachers and parents on activities to promote global competence.