Problem-solving performance and subject preference: Math avoidance among Filipino elementary preservice teachers

Authors

  • Jupeth Toriano Pentang Western Philippines University, Philippines
  • Ronalyn Maguale Bautista Saint Mary’s University, Philippines
  • Jairus Toriano Pentang Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Philippines
  • Edwin Daniega Ibañez Central Luzon State University, Philippines
  • Mary Jane Dancil Gamozo Western Philippines University, Philippines

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37134/jrpptte.vol13.1.7.2023

Keywords:

Mathematics education, mixed-method study, teacher education

Abstract

Elementary preservice teachers (EPTs) substantially impact the quality of mathematics education, and their subject preference and problem-solving performance are essential indicators of their readiness to teach. The study described EPTs’ subject preference and problem-solving performance. Through a sequential explanatory research design, the quantitative inquiry involved 125 random samples, while the qualitative inquiry was participated by 30 non-random samples. Data were obtained by using an online survey and conferencing. Quantitative data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and analysis of variance, whereas qualitative data were themed accordingly. The EPTs displayed unsatisfactory problem-solving performance and preferred to handle subjects other than math. Besides, the analysis found no significant performance differences with the EPTs’ subject preferences. Further, the EPTs who preferred to teach mathematics expressed their confidence in mathematics. Meanwhile, the EPTs who preferred other subjects displayed math avoidance. The study revealed an alarming result indicating that the EPTs are unprepared for teaching. As agents in cultivating the nation’s mathematics education status, these EPTs must be equipped with fundamental content knowledge. It is suggested that educational decision-makers take measures to address the issues identified concerning EPTs’ readiness to teach mathematics successfully.

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Author Biographies

Jupeth Toriano Pentang, Western Philippines University, Philippines

Wesleyan University-Philippines, Philippines

Jairus Toriano Pentang, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Philippines

Benguet State University, Philippines

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Published

2023-06-26

How to Cite

Pentang, J. T., Bautista, R. M., Pentang, J. T., Ibañez, E. D., & Gamozo, M. J. D. (2023). Problem-solving performance and subject preference: Math avoidance among Filipino elementary preservice teachers. Journal of Research, Policy & Practice of Teachers and Teacher Education, 13(1), 89–102. https://doi.org/10.37134/jrpptte.vol13.1.7.2023