For Students Who Dislike Math

For students who dislike math, is there a particular reason? Craig Lester Problem - Having a negative attitude toward mathematics may be related to achievement of math students. If students don't like math, they may be able to struggle through the classes and make good grades, but the long-term effect will probably be that they will not pursue the subject any more than they have to. They will certainly not pursue a career in a math related field. If we can determine the reasons for this dislike, then teachers can take steps to change the student’s attitude. Purpose- There seems to be a widespread dislike of mathematics.

Research suggests that students who dislike math will avoid taking higher level math classes and may not seek careers in a math related field or any field that will require math. If the reason can be found for students who dislike mathematics, educators may be able to devise an intervention. Research Question - For students who dislike mathematics, is there a

particular reason? Limitations - The survey will be conducted during the normal math class time and therefore the students may feel rushed or affected by peer pressure. The survey was constructed by the researcher and not validated. Problem - Having a negative attitude toward mathematics may be related to achievement of math students. If students don't like math, they may be able to struggle through the classes and make good grades, but the long-term effect will probably be that they will not pursue the subject any more than they have to. They will certainly not pursue a career in a math related field. If we can determine the reasons for this dislike, then teachers can take steps to change the student’s attitude.

Significance - Educators and government officials have been seeking to find ways to increase student achievement in mathematics and science. With many students having a dislike of mathematics, it will be difficult to have meaningful change in achievement. If a particular reason can be found for this dislike, then it may be possible to intervene in a timely manner. Definition of Terminology - Dislike in this study will be defined in terms of a negative attitude toward mathematics. This attitude can be from anxiety, a negative experience in the classroom, a lack of success in math, or the perception that math has no real world connection or uses.

02/12/2007 13:19:00

02/12/2007 13:19:00