Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics

A Case Study Of Public Secondary Schools In Kiambu County, Kenya

Students’ attitudes towards mathematics play a crucial role in their learning and achievement in the subject, with a positive attitude leading to increased motivation, confidence, and resilience, and a negative attitude resulting in disengagement, lack of confidence, and poor academic performance. Factors such as previous experiences, teacher-student interactions, and cultural background shape students’ attitudes, which can influence their career choices, self-esteem, and overall academic performance. Students with a positive attitude tend to be more engaged, motivated, and likely to persist in solving problems, seek help when needed, and explore mathematical concepts beyond the classroom, while those with a negative attitude may avoid mathematics-related careers and experience anxiety and stress. Therefore, fostering a positive attitude towards mathematics among students is essential for their academic success and future opportunities.

ABSTRACT

Despite ongoing reform efforts, mathematics underachievement persists, prompting further research into overlooked factors. Student attitudes towards mathematics significantly influence learning and achievement, making this a crucial area of study. This research aimed to investigate the impact of student attitudes on mathematics learning and achievement by exploring their attitudes and identifying influential factors. By understanding how attitudes shape learner behaviors, this study can inform strategies to foster positive attitudes, leading to improved learning outcomes.
The study employed a descriptive survey design, sampling seven public secondary schools in Kiambu county, with form four students as the target population. Purposive and random sampling techniques were used to select schools and students, respectively. Data collection relied on student questionnaires, adapted from the Fennema-Sherman attitudes scales, to capture perceptions and beliefs about mathematics. The data was analyzed using SPSS and Excel, with findings indicating that most students hold positive attitudes towards mathematics, perceiving it as accessible, important, and learnable. However, this did not translate to high academic achievement.
The study revealed that students’ motivation and outcomes are influenced by their perceptions, beliefs, learning abilities, and past performances. To address this, the study recommends teachers adopt varied instructional strategies that promote discovery and learner interest. Students should be encouraged to apply knowledge and skills through feedback and assignments. By providing experiences and opportunities that inspire engagement and value mathematics, students can develop a positive attitude, leading to improved learning and achievement

APA

Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics. (n.d.). UniTopics. https://www.unitopics.com/project/material/students-attitudes-and-their-effects-on-learning-and-achievement-in-mathematics/

MLA

“Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics.” UniTopics, https://www.unitopics.com/project/material/students-attitudes-and-their-effects-on-learning-and-achievement-in-mathematics/. Accessed 21 November 2024.

Chicago

“Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics.” UniTopics, Accessed November 21, 2024. https://www.unitopics.com/project/material/students-attitudes-and-their-effects-on-learning-and-achievement-in-mathematics/

WORK DETAILS

Project Type:
Project
Chapters:
5
Pages:
90
Words:
19623

Here’s a typical structure for Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics research projects:

  • The title page of Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics should include the project title, your name, institution, and date.
  • The abstract of Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics should be a summary of around 150-250 words and should highlight the main objectives, methods, results, and conclusions.
  • The introduction of Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics should provide the background information, outline the research problem, and state the objectives and significance of the study.
  • Review existing research related to Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics, identifying gaps the study aims to fill.
  • The methodology section of Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics should describe the research design, data collection methods, and analytical techniques used.
  • Present the findings of the Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics research study using tables, charts, and graphs to illustrate key points.
  • Interpret Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics results, discussing their implications, limitations, and potential areas for future research.
  • Summarize the main findings of the Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics study and restate its significance.
  • List all the sources you cited in Students’ Attitudes And Their Effects On Learning And Achievement In Mathematics project, following a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

Students’ attitudes towards mathematics play a vital role in their academic journey, influencing their learning and achievement in the subject. A positive attitude towards mathematics can lead to increased motivation, confidence, and resilience, ultimately resulting in better academic performance.
Research has shown that students’ attitudes towards mathematics are shaped by a combination of factors, including their previous experiences, teacher-student interactions, and cultural background. Positive experiences, such as solving problems and receiving praise from teachers, can foster a positive attitude towards mathematics. On the other hand, negative experiences, like struggling with difficult concepts or being ridiculed by peers, can lead to a negative attitude.
Teacher-student interactions also significantly impact students’ attitudes towards mathematics. Teachers who create a supportive and encouraging learning environment can help students develop a positive attitude towards the subject. Conversely, teachers who are dismissive or unapproachable can contribute to a negative attitude. Cultural background also plays a role, with some cultures valuing mathematics and encouraging students to pursue STEM careers, while others view mathematics as irrelevant or too challenging.
The effects of students’ attitudes on learning and achievement in mathematics are profound. Students with a positive attitude tend to be more engaged, motivated, and resilient in the face of challenges. They are more likely to persist in solving problems, seek help when needed, and explore mathematical concepts beyond the classroom. In contrast, students with a negative attitude tend to be disengaged, lack confidence, and experience anxiety and stress, ultimately leading to poor academic performance.
Moreover, students’ attitudes towards mathematics can influence their career choices and future opportunities. Students who develop a positive attitude towards mathematics are more likely to pursue careers in STEM fields, which are in high demand and offer better job prospects. On the other hand, students with a negative attitude may avoid mathematics-related careers, limiting their future opportunities.
Furthermore, students’ attitudes towards mathematics can also impact their self-esteem and overall academic performance. Students who struggle with mathematics may develop a negative self-image, leading to decreased motivation and performance in other subjects. Conversely, students who excel in mathematics may develop a positive self-image, leading to increased motivation and performance in other areas.
In addition, students’ attitudes towards mathematics can influence their ability to problem-solve and think critically. Mathematics education aims to develop problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and analytical reasoning. Students with a positive attitude towards mathematics are more likely to develop these skills, which are essential in various aspects of life.
In conclusion, students’ attitudes towards mathematics have a significant impact on their learning and achievement in the subject. Teachers, parents, and policymakers must work together to create a supportive and encouraging learning environment that fosters a positive attitude towards mathematics among students. By doing so, we can help students develop a positive attitude towards mathematics, leading to increased motivation, confidence, and resilience, and ultimately, better academic performance and future opportunities

WORK DETAILS

Project Type:
Project
Chapters:
5
Pages:
90
Words:
19623