Exploring Scientific and Mathematical Thinking Skills in TIMSS

Teachers College, Columbia University, New York NY

Investigators

Abstract

The investigator would apply a method of expert-knowledge and statistical technique to the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) data set to identify and measure latent competencies that students must use to get correct solutions to test problems. The TIMSS was conducted in both mathematics and science, but the final negotiated project will be conducted in mathematics only. The purpose of this investigation is to provide a technique that can help classroom teachers and administrators make better use of test score data. The investigator has developed a technique (Rule Space method) to enable the creation of a scale score on underlying knowledge states. This process will test through statistical analysis the existence of attributes of the test items that identify cognitive processing skills and knowledge underlying student performance.