Mathematical Anxiety Research Paper

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Introduction
“Since the mathematicians have invaded the theory of relativity I do not understand it myself anymore.” - Albert Einstein. The universal nature of mathematics makes it a necessary academic discipline in all parts of the world. In India too, mathematics plays an important role in the development of technical skills and knowledge of students. However, Indian students have the choice of dropping the subject and its variants while entering into the last two years of their senior secondary education, within formal schooling. They are generally presented with the choice of Science, Commerce or Social Sciences streams, a choice that determines the course of their education and the rest of their career. Perhaps one determinant in this …show more content…

The discipline of mathematics is a difficult learning site with the potential to trigger distressed emotional states or dread in those students who cannot comprehend its concepts or to use it to solve problems. (Ashcraft & Faust, 1994). A background in mathematics is necessary for many career opportunities in an increasingly technological society but academically capable students are often restricted by fear of mathematics. This leads to discontinuation of mathematical training and education. (Meece, Wigfield & Eccles, 1990, p. 60)
This fear of mathematics, initially termed mathemaphobia or mathophobia, is currently termed mathematical anxiety. Mathematical anxiety can be defined as “the feelings of tension and anxiety that interfere with the manipulation of numbers and the solving of mathematical problems in a wide variety of ordinary and academic situations" …show more content…

Mathematical anxiety is assessed independent of skill in mathematics.
Subject stream will refer to the choice of subjects within the broad categories of Science, Commerce or Social Sciences by a student at the conclusion of 10th standard education.
Science stream refers to subjects of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, and electronics chosen for study in first pre-university and second pre-university.
Commerce stream includes the subjects of basic mathematics, business studies, accountancy, statistics and economics for study in first pre-university and second pre-university.
Social Sciences stream refers to subjects of psychology, political science, history, economics and sociology for study in first pre-university and second

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