Thesis
The effects of an engineering-mathematics course on freshmen students' mathematics self-efficacy
Washington State University
Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
2010
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/2376/103735
Abstract
In 2009, Washington State University introduced an engineering based mathematics course for incoming freshmen to improve students' understanding of pre- calculus and calculus concepts within the context of engineering applications. Because students with higher self-efficacy beliefs often have greater success in academics and increased retention in engineering (Lent, Brown, and Larkin, 1984; Chemers et al 2001; Schunk, 1991), this study was conducted to investigate the longitudinal effects of the course on students' mathematics self-efficacy. Previous research has demonstrated the importance of mathematics self-efficacy, but has been largely either qualitative or quantitative and rarely longitudinal. This study was conducted longitudinally using a quantitative survey instrument and qualitative, semi-structured interviews implemented on three occasions over four months with the eight students enrolled to examine effects of the course. For comparison, the survey was also implemented in another freshman- level engineering course. Results show that the class had a positive impact on students' mathematics self-efficacy. Survey results show that mathematics self-efficacy increased sharply during the course and was sustained into the following term. Analysis of interview data supports survey findings regarding the impact of the class and add findings detailing themes related to perceived efficacy experiences. Mastery and vicarious experiences were the most prevalent of Bandura's (1997) four sources of self-efficacy found in this study. It is apparent that the students' mathematics self-efficacy did increase as a result of the course. Understanding if, how, and why students' mathematics self-efficacy beliefs change over time provides information that educators can use to develop teaching methods and curriculum.
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Details
- Title
- The effects of an engineering-mathematics course on freshmen students' mathematics self-efficacy
- Creators
- Fred James Barker
- Contributors
- Shane Brown (Degree Supervisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, Department of
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University; Pullman, Wash. :
- Identifiers
- 99900525035001842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis