Seven Variables Which Can Influence A Student's Ability To Learn Mathematics *

(1) Knowledge of Content Matter

(2) Computational Skills

(3) Problem Solving Skills - There are a number of problem solving strategies one can use while solving problems. These include drawing a diagram, rereading the problem, looking for patterns, and making a table. It is helpful to separate out two components: a need to have many such strategies and a need to be able to use them skillfully.

(4) Metacognitive Skills- These generally involve being able to monitor one's progress while solving a problem.

(5) Number Sense and the Ability to Estimate - An example of number sense is being able to multiply 34 x 10 mentally. An example of estimation is knowing that the product of 3.4 and 5.02 will be slightly over 15.

(6) Beliefs About Mathematics - Maladaptive ones include believing that one must solve problems "mathematically" which means finding a formula or doing computations, that there is a right way and a right answer to every problem, that answers should come out evenly, that one must do as much as possible in one's head.

(7) Attitude - Examples: test anxiety, motivation, confidence, perceived usefulness of learning math, liking/disliking math in general, word problems in particular.

* Tom Bassarear