Students’ Understanding of the Real Nature of Mathematics and Its Relationship to Their Attitude Towards the Discipline

Abstract

This research aims to determine students’ understanding of the nature of mathematics and how it affects their attitude towards the discipline. Students’ understanding of the nature of mathematics was assessed using the developed instrument of the researcher. Analysis of the results from this survey resulted to classroom implications that recognize an alternative perspective to mathematics vis-à-vis teaching methodologies that aims to promote understanding of the nature of mathematics. This study found out that students have very limited understanding of the nature of mathematics despite majoring on the discipline. This explains their inch-deep appreciation and understanding of the importance of mathematics. It was further concluded that explicit but seamless teaching of the nature of mathematics may improve students’ appreciation, interest and understanding of the fullness of the discipline. It also has the potential to improve students’ attitude towards mathematics which affects their motivation and interest in the discipline.

Keywords: mathematics education, nature of mathematics

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/14-6-15

Publication date: February 28^th 2023