Research Projects

OECD Teaching and Learning International Survey (Australian component)

Project Director: Mr Chris Freeman

ACER has been commissioned to undertake the Australian component of the OECD Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS). The Project is intended to produce data on Australian teachers and principals which will contribute to TALIS in the development of policy relevant indicators on teachers, teaching and learning. TALIS comprises three phases: Pilot Study, Field Trial and Main study. More specifically, it will provide analysis and indicators to help countries to develop policies and practices for:

  • recognising, rewarding and evaluating teachers and their professional development so that schools can successfully retain and develop effective teachers in the teaching workforce;
  • developing effective teaching practices, attitudes and beliefs and for shaping the professional development that will support this; and
  • developing school leadership models that help create effective schools and the teaching forces within them, including the leadership’s influence on teacher recognition, reward and evaluation, teaching practices, attitudes and beliefs, professional development and the climate of the school.

The main survey to be conducted in late 2007 will involve 3000 teachers selected (according to sampling requirements) from all states, territories, sectors and geographic locations in Australia.

The survey questionnaires and methodology for implementation are being developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), with some scope for adaptation by countries participating in TALIS. ACER will work within the international management framework of TALIS, including liaison with the International Association for Evaluation of Education Achievement, an independent, international cooperative of national research institutions and governmental research agencies.   The study extends from 2007 to 2009.

Expected Completion Date: June 2009

Funding: Australian Government Department of Education, Science and Training

Deliverables: Field Trial in March/April 2007; 20 schools, 400 teachers
Main Sample in October/November 2007; 200 schools, 4000 teachers nation wide
National Report and Technical report to DEST

Publications/Links: For more information on TALIS, visit OECD Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS)