Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.32903/zs.65.1-2.2
Which is a Better Predictor of Achievement in Mathematics and Physics - Attitudes towards Mathematics or Working Memory Capacity?
Josip Novak
; Nacionalni centar za vanjsko vrednovanje obrazovanja, Zagreb, Republika Hrvatska
Predrag Brođanac
; V. gimnazija, Zagreb, Republika Hrvatska
Abstract
Prior research have shown that attitudes toward mathematics are significant predictors of different outcomes related to mathematics, such as engagement or achievement, but also of later academic performance in mathematics and science, as well as success and persistence in learning of mathematics. However, attitudes toward mathematics and their relationship with achievement in Mathematics and Physics, together with potential role of working memory in the mentioned relationship are under-researched on Croatian samples. Working memory is strongly related to mathematics performance and it is therefore of practical significance to determine its role in relationship between attitudes towards mathematics and achievement in Mathematics and Physics. The research was conducted on a convenient sample which consisted of 178 students from the 5th Gymnasium in Zagreb, which had balanced ratio of sexes. Results of this research suggest that working memory and perceived usefulness of mathematics are not significant predictors of achievement in Mathematics and Physics after Liking Mathematics and Mathematics self-concept were included in the regression equation. The final model and registered mediational effects have practical implications and entice further research on the relationship among these constructs.
Keywords
attitudes towards mathematics; working memory; school achievement
Hrčak ID:
233529
URI
Publication date:
2.12.2019.
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