This ‘usually refers to decision-making that takes into account the actions and reactions of other … agents. Its essential feature is the recognition of the direct interdependence between one’s behaviour and that of others’ (Encyclopedia.com).
Within the education field, financing mechanisms may incentivise unwanted strategic behaviour. For example, ‘financial constraints may lead to strategic behaviour where schools directly link the support learners may need with an official decision’ (European Agency, 2022e, p. 12). ‘Similarly, parents may also demonstrate strategic behaviour that is not in line with the policy’ (Meijer, 1999, p. 20). ‘These forms of strategic behaviour may result in less inclusion, more labelling and rising costs’ (ibid., p. 12).