Teacher Characteristic Predictors of Mathematics Attitude and Perceptions of Engaged Teaching: U.S. 12th-Grade Students

• In Event: Teachers and Their Influence on the Learning Environment

Abstract

This study examined the 2015 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study to determine how the educational credentials of math teachers and other teacher characteristics were related to attitude towards mathematics and perceptions of engaged teaching among 12th grade students enrolled in advanced mathematics courses. A set of multilevel regression analyses were conducted. Positive effects were noted for parental education on students’ valuing of advanced mathematics. A prominent finding was that higher levels of parental education were associated with higher student levels of valuing mathematics; likely reflecting a home culture that implicitly places high value on mathematics. Identifying factors that might facilitate positive attitude is important to increase the likelihood that students will choose and be retained in mathematics fields.

Authors

• Thomas J. Smith, Northern Illinois University

• David A. Walker, Northern Illinois University

• Wen-Yi Hsu, Kaohsiung Medical University

• Ying-Yan Lu, Kaohsiung Medical University

• Cornelius McKenna, Kishwaukee College