Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS)

TIMSS (Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study) is a large-scale assessment designed to inform educational policy and practice by providing an international perspective on teaching and learning in mathematics and science.

TIMSS conducts comprehensive state-of-the-art assessments of mathematics and science for students in Year 4 and Year 8, supported with extensive data about country, school, and classroom learning environments. First conducted in 1995, TIMSS reports every four years on the achievement of Year 4 and Year 8 students. Australia has participated in all seven cycles.

TIMSS is a project of the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) and is directed by the TIMSS International Study Center at Boston College in collaboration with a worldwide network of organisations and representatives from the participating countries. ACER is responsible for undertaking the data collection in Australian schools.