Use and Impact of TIMSS
Since the 1995 assessment, TIMSS results have informed modifications to the Iranian education system. Objectives for mathematics and science education were evaluated following the publication of both the TIMSS outcomes and the TIMSS analysis of factors contributing to Iranian achievement results. Based on updated objectives, revisions to specific curriculum components have been considered. For example, an analysis of fourth and eighth grade student performance in mathematics found weaknesses in certain content areas. At the primary level, students had difficulty working with fractions and thinking visually, while at the lower secondary level, students had difficulty with algebraic thinking and statistics (e.g., interpreting diagrams and graphs). This information was communicated to curriculum planners and textbook editors. In addition, a comparative analysis of textbooks was conducted as a result of Iranian students’ performance on TIMSS. The textbooks of high performing TIMSS countries were consulted during the revision of Iranian texts. The eighth grade science framework also was reviewed following TIMSS 1999. The Earth science curriculum was updated in line with the TIMSS framework, leading to better performance in that content area in later assessments.
At the school level, TIMSS released items for Grades 4, 8, and 12, which have been disseminated for teacher use. The cognitive classifications used in the TIMSS assessment were introduced to teachers in teacher editions of textbooks. Professional development sessions have been conducted in order to introduce the TIMSS frameworks and their goals and objectives to teachers.
A secondary analysis of data (2003–2011) revealed mathematical shortcomings among fourth grade Iranian students. These results were used in compiling new primary school textbooks and also are approved for use in teacher education programs and professional development courses to aid teachers in becoming familiar with student shortcomings.
Research opportunities and potential research topics using TIMSS results have been introduced to masters and doctoral students majoring in mathematics education and curriculum planning.