Step 3: Appoint Test Administrator

Identify at least one test administrator (which may be the school contact) to administer the test and Student Questionnaire. More than one test administrator may be necessary if more than one class in the school is selected to participate and if assessment sessions will occur simultaneously in different rooms.

The test administrator should not be the teacher of the selected class, but could be another teacher in the school or a school staff member, such as a guidance counsellor. The teacher of the class should be encouraged to attend the assessment session as an observer whenever possible.

Once the test administrator is selected, the school contact will need to provide an overview of TIMSS administration to them (unless the school contact will also be the test administrator).

The overview should include:

  • explaining the overall study;
  • planning and confirming the assessment session logistics (see On Assessment Day);
  • printing the list of tasks for future reference (see Test Administrator Checklist);
  • familiarizing themselves with the Assessment Script, the procedures for administering the test and Student Questionnaire, and the assessment forms; and
  • running the TIMSS Player to familiarize themselves with the application.

Note: CMEC does not cover any additional expenses the school may incur as a result of administering TIMSS (e.g., hiring supplementary staff or purchasing extra supplies).