Students' beliefs about learning mathematics: Some findings from the Solomon Islands

Abstract

Students’ beliefs and attitudes can impact on their mathematics learning and performance. Yet, there appears to be minimal literature that deals with the educational implications of this dimension. This paper focuses on the beliefs of Year 12 Solomon Islands students in mathematics learning. The
students’ beliefs are analysed and themes identified. While most students were in agreement about the beliefs in doing mathematics, there were variations in the students’ self-efficacy beliefs. The findings are interpreted in relation to recent writing about students’ beliefs towards learning mathematics.

The paper will consider the issues arising out of the study and offer suggestions for meeting these
challenges.