Details for publication #55:
2007 - Conference paper
Multi-dimensional structure of a (use of) Mathematics self efficacy instrument
An instrument was built to measure self-efficacy (s.e.) of 16-17 year old students in relation to their use of mathematics, a 'soft' learning outcome measure that is expected to provide important information when contrasting subgroups following a 'mathematics' and a 'use of mathematics' programme. Analysis revealed significant DIF between the two subgroups. Further, multi-dimensional analysis suggests that 'pure (P)' and 'applied (A)' scores might better be reported separately (in addition to the overall 'maths (M)' s.e. score). Furthermore the subgroup score means P and A are significantly different in the expected direction (i.e. the use of maths group is significantly more confident on the Applied dimension and vice versa), while the relation of M (A, P) is nearly invariant across subgroups.