Perception on Mathematical Abilities and Academic Self-Esteem of Humss Students
Keywords:
perception, mathematical abilities, academic self-esteem, social influencesAbstract
INTRODUCTION
Mathematics is the science that deals with the logic of shape, quantity, and arrangement; the discipline of mathematics to social science presents many challenges to dissimilar learners. Mainly focusing on Humanities and Social Sciences students, our research sought how the perception of an individual in his/her mathematical abilities affects one's academic self-esteem.
METHODS
A phenomenological study was used as the research design. Using the validated interview guide questions, we conducted an in-depth one on one interview along with a survey questionnaire. This is used as a primary source of data. There were ten Grade 11 HUMSS student-participants selected through the purposive or judgmental sampling technique. The answer from the respondents was collected to transcribed and analyzed.
RESULTS
It is more on a positive impact that the respondents had experienced regarding the stereotype. Even though some of the responses display offended, the majority of them still counted the stereotype as a fallacy. Daily, they were even proud of lacking excellence in math because they have self-appreciation and they believe in their different skills. The data were gathered through direct interviews. We come up with themes because of multiple responses. These are (1) sublimation, (2) rationalization, (3) reaction formation, (4) existentialism and (5) self-appreciation. We derived some of the themes based on different defense mechanisms under the psychoanalytic theory of Sigmund Freud. All of the participants willfully participated during the interview.
DISCUSSIONS
In spite most of them had struggles in choosing HUMSS because of different social influences around them, they still chose the path that they wanted to and follow their dreams in life. Among the themes we established concerning the response of the participants in the study, "Public Awareness" is revealed to be the most effective way for the students to be familiar with the effects of the perception on Mathematical abilities of HUMSS students' to their academic self-esteem. Department of Education may consider this research in their studies for development and learning innovation strategies.