Improving Students’ Negative Attitude towards the Study of Mathematics and Related Disciplines in Nigeria Schools

Omoruan Bertha Ese

Abstract


Improving students’ negative attitude towards the study of Mathematics and related disciplines was the focus of this paper. Common characteristics among students studying Mathematics include negative attitudes such as lack of interest, zeal and hatred toward the subject. The paper examined the concept of attitude and Mathematics and its related disciplines. Since Mathematics is a subject which has to be learnt by doing, rather than by reading, the paper looked at factors responsible for students' lack of interest, zeal and hatred for the subject. These include the inherent difficulties of the subject itself, common conditions affecting students’ backwardness in the course of studying the subject, the issue of quality teaching and excellent learning. Paving way for the need for an integrated oriented approach that will enable students to engage in constant practice was advocated. It discussed approaches such as presentation of manipulative during instruction, constructivist models approach of instruction and using of technology-based approach through the use of Mathematics laboratory. Recommendations were made that the training and re-training of Mathematics science teachers should be based on technology and the establishment of technology-based Mathematics laboratories in schools by government (Federal and State) and Private Companies.


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