Identifying psychological factors that improve mathematics achievement in Grade 9 pupils from Gauteng

Abstract

The thesis investigates the unique contribution of study orientations and personality traits in influencing mathematics performance, whilst accounting for fluid intelligence. It was found that all study orientations – study attitudes, mathematics anxiety, study habits, problem-solving behaviour, and study milieu – directly predict math mark. Furthermore, study milieu moderates the impact that fluid intelligence has on math mark. Additionally, it was found that facets of conscientiousness, extraversion, and agreeableness moderate the influence of these study orientations in turn, to predict math mark. Overall, it is concluded that in addition to fluid intelligence, study orientations and personality add significant value in understanding what impacts Grade 9 pupils’ math performance.