The politics of good enough data. Developments, dilemmas and deadlocks in the production of global learning metrics

The indicator framework established for the monitoring of SDG4 is unambiguous on the need to advance in the production of global learning data. However, the production of SDG4 learning metrics has been riddled with technical and political difficulties. Drawing on a combination of documentary analysis, interviews and non-participant observation, this paper reconstructs the process of negotiation of the data suppliers, statistical routines and reporting standards necessary for the production of SDG4 learning metrics. The paper thus offers insight into the mechanics of global quantification, and on the transformative impact of such processes on the agendas and relationships of partaking organizations.