Student learning processes
Deconstructing maths anxiety: Helping students to develop a positive attitude towards learning maths
Publication Date
7-2013
Abstract
Higher maths ability is often believed to go hand-in-hand with greater levels of general intelligence. At the same time, many students have a negative attitude towards maths. Maths anxiety is defined in the research literature as feelings of concern, tension or nervousness that are experienced in combination with maths. In 2005, researchers in the United States estimated that approximately 20 per cent of the US population were highly maths anxious. Given the cultural similarities between the US and Australia, we can assume that the percentage would be comparable here. Research in education, cognitive psychology and neuroscience shows that anxiety can lead to a drop in maths performance.
Recommended Citation
Buckley, S. (2013). Deconstructing maths anxiety: Helping students to develop a positive attitude towards learning maths. Australian Council for Educational Research. https://research.acer.edu.au/learning_processes/16
Copyright Statement
Copyright 2013 Australian Council for Educational Research
Place of Publication
Melbourne, Victoria
Publisher
Australian Council for Educational Research
ISSN
2652-8916
Included in
Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons, Educational Psychology Commons, Science and Mathematics Education Commons
Comments
ACER Occasional Essays - July 2013