Engineering Education and Attitudes Toward Mathematics: A Comparative Study

摘要

Research addressed the importance of high abilities in mathematics at secondary school for the well preparation of engineering profession. However, factors influencing mathematics performance like Self-Confidence in Mathematics learning, values on mathematics, and Positive Attitudes toward Mathematics receivedless attention in research of engineering education. This paper utilized TIMSS 2007 data to conduct a global comparative analysis on these three factors at varied International Benchmark levels. The countries for this comparative study are the United States and the top three Asian countries, Chinese Taipei, Korea and Singapore. Results showed that compared with Chinese Taipei and Korea, Singapore students tend to have high level of Self-Confidence in Mathematics learning, values on mathematics, and Positive Attitudes toward Mathematics. The students of United States, though not ranked high in average mathematics achievement, tend to place good values on mathematics, have self-confidence in learning, and have positive attitudes toward mathematics.