Math Anxiety and Poor Math Competence: A Longitudinal Investigation of Students Failing to Achieve the Math Skills Required by School Curricula

Abstract

ABSTRACT Mathematics anxiety (MA) has emerged as a significant concern in recent years, recognized for its potential to interfere with learning processes. Our study delved into exploring the relationship between the presence and level of MA and the ability to acquire math skills required by the school curriculum. For this purpose, secondary school students were monitored during their first year of study. A questionnaire designed to assess MA and a math skills assessment test were administered on two separate occasions: initially at the end of the first term and subsequently at the conclusion of the second term. The results of the end-of-year tests indicated that students with high levels of MA, assessed at the beginning of the school year, showed a significantly greater risk of failing to achieve the required competence. These findings seem to support the notion that a high level of MA can significantly contribute to hindering the acquisition of educational outcomes.