Homework Characteristics as Predictors of Advanced Math Achievement and Attitude Among U.S. 12th-Grade Students

• In Event: 66.055 - Using National and International Data Sets to Explore Young Adult Outcomes

Abstract

The present study examined the 2015 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study “Advanced” data to examine how both the type of homework assigned and how that homework was used were related to advanced mathematics achievement and attitudes toward advanced mathematics among 12th grade students in the U.S. Additionally, the relationship between use of the internet and advanced math achievement and attitude were assessed. Results showed that no specific characteristic of homework was associated with advanced mathematics ability. However, homework requiring students to find applications of mathematics positively predicted student attitude towards advanced mathematics. Additionally, although in-class discussions of homework were negatively associated with attitude, internet discussion of math concepts positively predicted attitude.

Authors

• Thomas J. Smith, Northern Illinois University

• Cornelius McKenna, Kishwaukee College

• David A. Walker, Northern Illinois University