Can non-responses speak louder than words Examining patterns of item non-response in TIMSS 2015

Abstract

Missing data, which are the occasions where answers to certain questions have not been provided, are a common feature of most datasets. However, minimal research has been performed in relation to the existence of missing responses in low-stakes testing situations from international studies, and whether variations can be found in the non-response patterns from country to country. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the variations that might exist in relation to omitting item responses in the TIMSS 2015 fourth grade data and look into their predictors based on item and student characteristics. The results of the study have found that differences do exist between countries on these issues, even when the countries have similar levels of achievement on TIMSS. Moreover, certain student and item characteristics were also found to be related to the patterns of non-responses, although these predictors varied from country to country.