Interest and recognition are key factors, researchers say
New York University
August 20, 2018
What are the qualities that make someone a math person? Is it a natural aptitude for numbers? A love of problem-solving? The ability to think abstractly?
According to a new study by researchers at New York University, two of the most important factors are interest and recognition.
"Interest in mathematics is the single most important factor in predicting mathematical ability," says study co-author Dr. David Geary, a professor of psychology at NYU. "Students who are interested in math are more likely to pay attention in class, do their homework, and seek out opportunities to learn more about the subject."
But interest alone is not enough. Students also need to be able to recognize their own mathematical abilities and develop a sense of self-efficacy, or the belief that they can succeed in mathematics.
"Students who believe that they are good at math are more likely to take on challenges, persevere when they get stuck, and ultimately achieve higher levels of mathematical achievement," says Geary.
The study involved a longitudinal analysis of data from over 1,000 students who were followed from kindergarten through 12th grade. The researchers measured the students' mathematical abilities, interest in mathematics, self-efficacy beliefs, and a variety of other factors.
The results showed that students who were interested in mathematics and had high self-efficacy beliefs were more likely to achieve higher scores on standardized math tests and take more advanced mathematics courses. They were also more likely to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields.
The findings of this study have important implications for education. By fostering interest in mathematics and developing students' self-efficacy beliefs, teachers can help to improve their students' mathematical achievement.
Here are some specific strategies that teachers can use to promote interest in mathematics:
- Make mathematics relevant to students' lives. Show them how mathematics is used in the real world, and help them to see the connections between mathematics and other subjects.
- Encourage students to explore mathematics on their own. Provide them with opportunities to play math games, solve puzzles, and investigate mathematical concepts.
- Praise students for their mathematical achievements, and help them to develop a sense of self-efficacy.
By following these strategies, teachers can help to create a generation of students who are not only good at mathematics, but also love the subject.
