Synthesising models of primary school mathematicians by putting influencing factors of mathematics performance to the test

Abstract

The gender-sensitive analysis of influencing factors on mathematical performance of primary school pupils can yield valuable insights into facilitating this vital phase of pupils’ educational trajectory. We view gender-sensitive mathematical performance in primary school based on works of Niklas (Psychologie in Erziehung und Unterricht, 62, 106, 2015) and Luttenberger et al. (Psychology Research and Behavior Management, 11, 311–322, 2018). All elements of their models can be assigned to structural traits of origin, home learning environment, interacting variables, and mathematics performance. These are presented and described in terms of gender. In our four-year long longitudinal study (n = 239) with four measurement points in primary school, the interplay and predictive power of these elements were analysed with structural equation model. Among the structural traits of origin, socio-economic status and migration background are relevant concerning precursor skills. The home learning environment is not relevant for precursor skills or later mathematics performance. The precursor skills and self-concept appear to be significant for mathematics performance whereas enjoyment of the subject does not matter. Gender affected only two measuring points of mathematics performance, so that the results support the gender similarity hypothesis according to Hyde (The American psychologist, 60, 581–592, 2005.) According to our study, school entry is not shaped by gender differences in social background, affective characteristics, or precursor skills. The results emphasize gender equality at the start of school, so that it is of interest for future studies to determine when and on the basis of which criteria performance differences develop in mathematics.