Can the kids master the basic arithmetical operations? Do they understand contexts in science? Does everybody get sufficient support? The latest educational study TIMSS („Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study“) can answer these questions. Heike Wendt, Professor for empirical educational research at the University of Graz was involved in this study and can interpret the results: „Austrian children did a lot better in maths than in the year 2011, their scientific competences did not improve, though. Educational justice has not changed either.“
Deep gaps
The study was realised before the Corona pandemic. Therefore one has to assume that knowledge gaps in science and the drawbacks for deprived children have increased during home schooling. „Of course it is gratifying that the introduction of educational standards and the focus on mathematical competences have shown positive effects. We should not lose sight of important topics in general studies, though", Wendt emphasises. In times of a pandemic it is more important than ever that children understand basic contexts in nature, society and health.
Educational justice is till out of reach. "Over the past 15 years it has not improved at all, although we know exactly what to do to bridge social differences", the researcher says. Individual learning, extra offers for deprived children, more specially educated personnel and last but not least a system that promotes the underpriviledged - above all children from immigrants.
