Cross country comparison of math-related factors affecting student mathematics literacy levels based on PISA 2012 results

Abstract

The purpose of the current study is to investigate the relationship between mathematics related affective factors and mathematics literacy levels across Brazil, Norway, Singapore and Turkey. The countries selected according to their rankings on PISA 2012 cycle. Singapore was a high-performer country, Norway was an average-performer country, Turkey was a below-average-performer country and Brazil was a low-performer country in PISA 2012. Multiple linear regression analysis was used separately for each selected country. Mathematics literacy score was used as a dependent variable, seven selected mathematics related affective factors (mathematics self-beliefs: mathematics self-efficacy, mathematics self-concept and mathematics anxiety; disposition and participation in mathematics related activities: mathematics intentions and mathematics behavior; motivational factors: instrumental motivation for mathematics and mathematics interest) were used as independent variables. The results indicated that all factors have significant effect on students’ mathematics literacy achievement for all selected countries. In general, mathematics self efficacy, mathematics self-concept, mathematics anxiety and mathematics behavior found that there is a same relationship for all four countries. Instrumental motivation for mathematics, mathematics intentions, and mathematics interest showed differences among countries.