A Research on the Beliefs about Mathematics Learning and Teacher Efficacy of Prospective Teachers in Turkey

Abstract

The aim of this study is to measure the consistency of beliefs about mathematics teaching and learning, and the perception of the effectiveness of prospective teachers. A total of 554 prospective teachers studying in the Kocaeli University, including 306 mathematics and 248 elementary prospective teachers participated in the research. Mathematics Beliefs Instrument was applied to the mathematics and elementary prospective teachers. In conclusion, it has been understood that majority of the prospective teachers have positive beliefs about mathematics. Mathematical beliefs of freshmen and sophomores or juniors change significantly. Similarly, significant differences appeared in the belief average points of female and male prospective teachers.