Highlights from TIMSS 2007 from Australia’s perspective

In 2007, Australia participated in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS 2007). Carried out every four years at Year 4 and Year 8, TIMSS provides data about trends in mathematics and science achievement over time. To inform educational policy in the participating countries, this world-wide assessment and research project also routinely collects extensive background information that addresses concerns about the quantity, quality, and content of instruction. The internationally standard Student Questionnaire sought information on students and their family background, aspects of learning and instruction in science, and context of instruction. The Teacher Questionnaire examined a variety of issues related to qualifications, pedagogical practices, teaching styles, use of technology, assessment and assignment of homework, and classroom climate. The School Questionnaire, answered by the principal, sought descriptive information about the school and information about instructional practices. For example, questions were asked about recruitment of teachers and numbers of staff, teacher morale, school and teacher autonomy, school resources, and school policies and practices such as use of student assessments.