Eric.ed.gov – Self-Confidence in Math: How and Why Do Men and Women Differ during the College Years? ASHE Annual Meeting Paper.

This study examined mathematical self-concept of college students and how it may develop differently between men and women. The study used data from a 1985 Cooperative Institutional Research Programs Survey and a follow-up survey in 1989 which included information from over 27,000 college freshmen and incorporates information acquired directly from institutions. The sample for the study was limited to 15,050 students attending 192 four-year colleges and universities. The data were analyzed in terms of characteristics at entry to college, intended choice of major, characteristics of the college environment, and college experiences. The dependent variable was students’ self-rating of their mathematical ability. Findings indicated that women are less confident than men about their mathematical abilities and that this disparity increases during the college years and is in large part based on their self-confidence and preparation during the high school years and on their experiences during college. Choice of major, and certain factors of institutional selectivity were significant factors in women’s change in self-concept regarding mathematics ability. In addition, women who tutor other students in math had higher self-confidence. Interaction with faculty was found to have a negative relationship with women’s math self-confidence. Appendixes contain further technical information on the study. (Contains 43 references.) (JB)