The attitude construct is widely used by teachers and researchers in mathematics education. Often, however, teachers' diagnosis of a "negative attitude" is a causal attribution of students' failure, perceived as global and uncontrollable, rather than an accurate interpretation of students' behaviour, capable of steering future action. In order to…

Has it ever seemed to you that some students are hardwired to dislike math? If so, then here's a book that explains how negative attitudes toward math get established in the brain and what you can do to turn those attitudes around. Math teacher and neurologist Judy Willis gives you over 50 strategies you can use right away in any grade level to:…

This study was undertaken in order to better understand prospective elementary school teachers' motivations for working with fractions before and after taking a course designed to deepen their understanding of mathematics, as well as what instructional practices might be related to any changes detected in their motivations. Eighty-five education…

Explores the phenomenon of math anxiety in a group of elementary school students by observing and conducting a survey to identify where students fit into the continuum of mathematics confidence. Discusses strategies to reduce math anxiety. (ASK)

This article describes how to use and valuate "thought bubble pictures" to uncover students' feelings about mathematics. (Contains 6 figures and 2 tables.)

Differences in cognitive structure are approached through consideration of cartesian and non-cartesian knowing. Figuration and configuration are described as two layers of cartesian knowing leading to the third layer, the cognitive structure. Knowing in general is then discussed, with comments on learning in another culture, Botswana. (MNS)

For many students, the longer they are in school, the less they trust in their ability to do math and fail to see why math is important to know. How can middle and secondary school educators turn that tendency around? Teachers can explore how their colleagues are answering that question and improving math programs in grades 7-12 in this next…

The range of problems associated with learned helplessness in mathematics is introduced through three hypothetical case studies. Then the basic theory of, the evidence for, and variables affecting learned helplessness are described. Issues of cure and prevention are discussed, and some suggestions are offered for teachers. (MNS)

Some misconceptions about learning are discussed and specific suggestions for helping students in a college developmental mathematics class learn how to learn mathematics are presented. Extensive footnotes are appended. (MNS)

Discusses the presence of math anxiety in otherwise gifted secondary students. It suggests the use of bibliotherapy and offers a sample lesson plan focused on the children's book, "Math Curse," to help students see mathematics as a tool for making life easier. An appendix provides an annotated listing of teacher resources on math anxiety. (DB)

Presents study results determining how individuals' performances in a subject relate to the value that society places on that subject. Explains that the study examined the relationship between each discipline and the cognitive capabilities of each subject. Concludes that failing students use an original conception, whereas successful students use…

Presents innovative, multiple intelligence math practices that can boost student learning and promote fun in the classroom. Suggestions include doing picture book math, working on open-ended problems, doing math all day and everywhere, and working on cooperative group math. (SM)

This study investigated the relationship between mathematical performance and mathematics self-efficacy, attitudes toward mathematics, and the choice of mathematics-related majors by college women and men. Performance and self-efficacy correlate positively with attitudes, masculine sex-role orientation, and a mathematics-related major. (Author/DC)

The high levels of anxiety, apprehension, and apathy of students in college algebra courses caused the instructor to create and test a variety of math teaching techniques designed to boost student confidence and enthusiasm in the subject. Overall, this proposal covers several different techniques, which have been evaluated by both students and the…

Describes math anxiety, explaining roadblocks to mathematics success; discussing strategies for overcoming anxiety (e.g., parent involvement, teacher sensitivity, and peer tutoring); and examining the influence of learning styles on mathematics achievement and attitudes. Mathematics teachers must identify students' problems in mathematics, work…