Mathematical Rigor, Mastery Learning, and Growth Mindset: A Content Analysis of IXL and Khan Academy

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Abstract

In today’s climate of educational accountability and expanding technology options, math educators must choose tools that promote rigor, address learning gaps, and support students’ confidence. This study evaluated two personalized learning platforms,IXL and Khan Academy,for 7th-grade students’ understanding of proportional relationships. It examined each tool’s mathematical rigor and how their designs support mastery learning and a growth mindset. Findings show both platforms offer comparable rigor and similarly promote mastery learning. However, Khan Academy appears more effective in fostering a growth mindset, particularly through its approach to incorrect answers. Implications for mathematics educators, administrators, and technology leaders are discussed in relation to their decision-making processes in support of student learning and beliefs.

Authors

• Shalom Labkovski, Township of Ocean Schools

• Vecihi Serbay Zambak, Monmouth University