EVALUATION OF LATVIA’S SCIENCE EDUCATION IN THE IEA TIMSS AND OECD PISA FRAMEWORK

The article deals with the two largest international comparative studies in science, the first cycles of which took place in the last years of the previous century and which go on today as well - IEA TIMSS (Trends in Mathematics and Science Study) and OECD PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment). The average achievements of Latvia's students in science in each of the studies are different but the general situation of science education in Latvia is satisfactory and corresponding to our economic situation. We support the opinion that improving of Latvia's economics and correct developing of the country's educational system will advance students' achievements. At the same time there are several spheres, which need immediate improvement. Especially, it concerns our students' skills to apply the knowledge gained in science lessons to real life situations.