On mathematics attitudes, self-efficacy beliefs and math-anxiety in commencing undergraduate students
Date
2008
Authors
Klinger, C.M.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Conference paper
Citation
Crossing borders - research, reflection and practice in adults learning mathematics. Proceedings of the 13th international conference of adults learning Mathematics (ALM), 2008, pp.88-97
Statement of Responsibility
Conference Name
13th international conference of adults learning Mathematics (17 Jul 2006 : Belfast, Northern Ireland)
Abstract
The attitudes, self-efficacy beliefs, and math-anxiety of commencing undergraduate students are examined with the aim of identifying differences between Science students and Arts/Humanities students in their perceptions of mathematics, including their own capabilities. The IMAES instrument developed by the author was administered to students during an academic transition programme conducted in Week 0 of the academic year. Data analysis revealed that participants who were beginning arts and humanities programmes tended to share the pervasive negative attitudes, low mathematics self-efficacy beliefs, and anxiety of mathematics attributed to the broader population by many previous studies, whereas their counter-parts enrolled in science-based programmes had attitudes and beliefs that were significantly more positive. The differences were found to be strongly linked to gender and,consistent with earlier reports by this researcher, also to early mathematics learning experiences. The implications of these findings are discussed in the contexts of providing mathematics support to students beginning tertiary studies and of fostering improvements in quantitative literacy in societ7
School/Discipline
Dissertation Note
Provenance
Description
Access Status
Rights
Copyright status unknown