A summer math institute: Adolescent girls' experiences in mathematics

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to examine possible causes of gender differences in mathematics and to investigate potential methods for lessening their effect on adolescent girls. Throughout a six week, summer school mathematics course, the participants were exposed to various activities and instructional methods thought to positively impact adolescent girls' self-esteem, self-efficacy and future mathematics course taking plans. Data collected included pretest - posttest measures as well as interview and observational data. The results indicate that along with a statistically significant improvement in mathematical skills, the participants showed an increase in self-confidence related to learning mathematics. The amount of mathematics courses the participants planned to take increased considerably by the end of the study. Suggestions for future research are also discussed.