Gestão eficiente dos gastos públicos em educação: perspectivas da escolha pública

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study aimed to analyze the efficiency of public spending on education in the 40 selected municipalities, using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) in conjunction with the Variance Inflation Factor (VIF) statistical model. In addition to calculating efficiency indices, the research sought to verify the relationship between the use of educational resources and the quality of education, considering the period from 2014 to 2023. The application of DEA allowed for a comprehensive assessment of public resource management, contributing to a more efficient administration focused on improving educational outcomes. Subsequently, Linear Regression was used to analyze the impacts of variables such as the quality of the teaching staff, approval and dropout rates on the management of educational investments. The results indicated that the presence of teachers with higher education is positively correlated with better educational indicators, including lower age-grade distortion rates and higher approval rates. However, dropout rates in both early and final years, as well as the Teacher Regularity Indicator, showed a negative or below-expected influence, suggesting challenges in student retention and teacher training continuity. Beyond internal factors, the research also identified the influence of external variables, such as socioeconomic conditions, local policies, and cultural aspects, on the efficiency of educational spending. The findings highlight the importance of investments in school infrastructure and social promotion policies to enhance the quality of education in municipalities in Minas Gerais. Given this, it is recommended that future studies expand the model employed by incorporating additional variables to more accurately capture the complexities of educational management and provide more robust support for public policy formulation. This research presents a relevant practical contribution to both academia and public managers, assisting in decision-making aimed at improving educational efficiency. Keywords: Efficiency. Public Spending. Education.