Community College Mathematics Students' Beliefs About Their Capabilities in Mathematics: An Exploration Through Narrative Inquiry

• In Event: 81.032 - MTCC Roundtable Session 37
  In Roundtable Session: 81.032-10 - Who Is Good at Mathematics? Conceptions in Classrooms and Popular Culture

Abstract

How do community college developmental mathematics students construct beliefs about their capabilities in mathematics? Without a clearer understanding of how beliefs are constructed, policymakers, educators, and parents are left with an incomplete picture of students’ pathways to academic success. The personal stories of developmental mathematics students were explored to unearth the sources that shaped beliefs about their mathematics capabilities over time. The data revealed that sources related to parents, teachers, classmates, peers, and personal characteristics influenced beliefs about mathematics capabilities. In addition, mathematics curricula, placement practices, and societal beliefs emerged as influential sources of beliefs. Practices that span both home and school and policies that bridge national, state, and local levels provide promise for positive change.

Author

• Paula J. Malachias, Shenandoah University