PISA-Schock und Hochschulmisere – Hat der deutsche Bildungsföderalismus versagt?

Abstract The article provides a critical account of the situation of schools and universities in Germany. Based on this, the allocation of responsibilities for education policy in Germany’s federal system is scrutinized. Hopes and fears associated with a more competitive, decentralized provision of education are discussed, referring to empirical studies. In conclusion, competition among states in a federation is advocated as a device for promoting policy innovation.