The Mathematics Anxiety Scale (MAS) was subjected to exploratory factor analysis in 1,047 students (including college undergraduates, high school students, and middle school students). Factor structures were similar for males and females. Recommends the MAS be used in conjunction with other measures that assess students' feelings and beliefs with…

Discusses the International Survey on Reading Abilities in Primary School (IGLU) and its data on achievement in reading, mathematics, and natural science. Compares this data to that collected by the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). Identifies achievement relevant correlations such as gender, migration background, socioeconomic…

In this study, students' achievement using three individualized audiotutorial (IAT) biology learning units was investigated. The method of instruction, gender, academic achievement in mathematics and biology, and students' IQ levels were compared. (KR)

Large numbers of African Americans learn early in life that they fail to perform adequately in mathematics and science, resulting in helplessness syndromes. Learned helplessness in science and mathematics can be ameliorated through desensitization of mathematics phobia, freeing educational environments of crowding and noise, and special career…

The Corsicana (Texas) high school assistant principal recounts how 34 consistently failing math and reading senior underachievers successfully passed the Texas statewide tests after they were taught all coursework through their preferred learning styles in a supportive environment. (Author/DB)

The relationship between mathematics performance and fundamental linguistic variations in the cognitive representation of numbers was assessed, using 24 first graders each from the United States and Japan. Results indicate that the Japanese cognitive representation of number positively affects the understanding of place value. No gender…

Refutes the multiculturalist's claims to current mathematics curriculum, including misinterpretation of mathematics history, promotion of racial stereotypes, and missing ethnic groups. Discusses the need for a national curriculum. (YP)

Five articles and a commentary on curriculum-based assessment (CBA) are presented. Article topics include a comparison of CBA models, computer applications, development of written retell for CBA in secondary programs, development of math skills in low-achieving high school students via CBA, and methods of summarizing trends in student achievement.…

Our culture's preoccupation with gender differences is reflected in the importance developmental psychologists have placed on gender-related issues. Discusses the following areas of research where gender has been a primary focus: (1) measurement of intellectual abilities; (2) biology and behavior; and (3) socialization processes. Discusses policy…

Self-concept measures and state certificate program achievement grades were used to determine the effects on 7th through 11th graders in Sydney (Australia) of converting two single-sex high schools to coeducational institutions. Pre- to post-transition data were collected from 1982 to 1985. Coeducational organizations benefit self-concept, while…

Eight articles review and report on research involving computers and problem solving skills. Topics discussed include research design; problem solving skills and programing languages, including BASIC and LOGO; computer anxiety; diagnostic programs for arithmetic problems; and relationships between ability and problem solving scores and between…

Discusses the "confidence factor" in pupils' attitudes about mathematics and the part it plays in their learning process. The authors outline three intervention strategies, drawing on British experience, that may encourage girls to develop confidence. (GR)

Reports on a study of 70 secondary female students in mathematics classes over a period of 7 weeks. Finds that self-efficacy was the best predictor of learning intentions. Recommends further research on the relationships between perceived learning environment, self-efficacy, and learning intentions. (CFR)

The effects of on-going curriculum-based measurement of student growth and expert system instructional consultation on teacher planning and student achievement in mathematics operations were studied for 33 elementary teachers assigned to one control or 2 experimental groups. Each teacher worked with two learning disabled or emotionally disturbed…

This study, involving 9 students (ages 8-11) with learning disabilities, found that 1 session of self-instruction training was not sufficiently powerful for students to learn a strategy for solving arithmetic problems, but a second session and access to tape-recorded cues resulted in improved performance. Effects did not generalize to student…