Development of the Science and Math Engagement Scale

• In Event: Measuring Student Interest, Engagement, and Well-Being in Mathematics Instruction

Abstract

Despite the importance of mathematics to future studies or careers, U.S. students have fallen behind international students in mathematics achievement Research shows higher levels of engagement, a construct that measures aspects of a student’s participation in academics, correlate to higher levels of achievement. Academic engagement is multidimensional and domain specific. We developed an instrument to measure engagement of young children in mathematics and its correlating field of science. Experts in motivation and education helped to refine the initial survey through a rigorous content validation process. An exploratory factor analysis with 490 students suggested that a two-factor structure (emotional and behavioral engagement) was appropriate for these data. The final two scales had adequate internal consistency reliability.

Authors

• Kathleen Cash, University of Louisville

• Jill L. Adelson, University of Louisville

• Ann E. Robinson, University of Arkansas at Little Rock