Abstract

The Program for International Student Assessment 2000 (PISA) is an International Examination that was developed by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to assess the reading, mathematics, and science literacy of students in participating countries, including the United States. PISA is a two-hour paper-and-pencil examination that is designed to assess 15-year-olds’ capabilities in reading, mathematics, and science literacy. PISA assesses how well prepared students are for life beyond the classroom by focusing on the application of knowledge and skills in everyday situations. PISA presents students with tasks that involve interpretation of real-world materials as much as possible. PISA assessment content areas reflect the knowledge young people will need for their future.

In addition to the two-hour paper-and-pencil assessment, students completed a background questionnaire providing information about themselves. The questionnaire covered school and home factors that help determine successful students. This paper analysed the questionnaire data from the United States students. Analysis of data revealed how United States 15-year-olds perceived what happens in the classrooms and at homes in many different ways. The findings revealed that factors affecting the 15-year-olds’ learning include disruptive classrooms, school culture and climate, teacher apathy, and lack of parental involvement in their children’s learning.