Study on the Mathematics-Oriented Risk-Taking Behaviors of 8th Grade Students in view of Certain Variables

Abstract

This study aims to reveal to what extent the mathematics oriented academic risk taking behaviors of the 8th grade students are predicted by such variables as the student's self efficacy regarding math lessons, gender, TEOG scores, period of studying mathematics outside school, mother's education level, father's education level, taking or not taking private lessons and the parents' income level. Relational screening model is used in the study. The sample of the study includes 1031 8th grade students studying in the secondary schools affiliated with the Ministry of National Education- located in the province of Sivas during the academic year 2014-2015. In collecting the data, the following scales are used; "Mathematics Oriented Academic Risk Taking Scale (MOARAO)" and "Mathematics Self Efficacy Scale (MKOAO)". Mathematics Oriented Academic Risk Taking Scale (MOARAO) consists of the subscales, Tendency to Prefer Difficult Process (GITE), Tendency to Negativity after Failure (BSOE) and Tendency to Recover Following Failure (BSTE). "Mathematics Self Efficacy Scale consists of subscales, Awareness in the Behaviors regarding Mathematics (MDF), Converting Mathematics into Life Skills (MYBD) and Mathematical Sense of Self (MBA). The method of linear multi hierarchical regression is adopted in the data analysis. It is found that the most significant predictor of the MOARA, GITE, BSOE variables is the MDF and the most significant predictor of the BSTE variable is the MYBD.