ERIC Number: EJ1261343
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2020
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-2196-7822
EISSN: N/A
Examining the Role of Spatial Skills and Mathematics Motivation on Middle School Mathematics Achievement
Atit, Kinnari; Power, Jason R.; Veurink, Norma; Uttal, David H.; Sorby, Sheryl; Panther, Grace; Msall, Camille; Fiorella, Logan; Carr, Martha
International Journal of STEM Education, v7 Article 38 2020
Background: Spatial skills and mathematical ability have been repeatedly identified as critical for achievement in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Previous studies have identified correlations between spatial skills and mathematical achievement; however, questions remain regarding improvements in non-spatial areas associated with STEM achievement. The current study examined whether competency in spatial skills could be related to individuals' motivation for mathematics. Measures of spatial skills and mathematics motivation were completed by 1056 seventh grade students. Results: Using hierarchical linear modeling, spatial skills and math motivation were examined relative to students' performance on a state standardized mathematics subtest. Results indicate that spatial skills and motivation interact to significantly predict students' mathematics performance. Conclusions: These results suggest that spatial skills in combination with motivation play a significant role in middle school students' mathematics achievement.
Descriptors: Spatial Ability, Mathematics Achievement, STEM Education, Correlation, Competence, Student Motivation, Grade 7, Standardized Tests, Scores, Interaction, Predictor Variables, Middle School Students
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education; Grade 7; Junior High Schools; Middle Schools; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Institute of Education Sciences (ED)
Authoring Institution: N/A
IES Funded: Yes
Grant or Contract Numbers: R305A150365