Modeling Students' Self-Efficacy in Mathematics during the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Self-efficacy in learning mathematics helps the student to overcome difficulties and challenges in problem-solving during unprecedented times. This article aims to measure the level of students' self-efficacy and its determinants during the COVID-19 pandemic in learning mathematics online. The study considered primary data from 233 students selected in a non-random approach at Visayas State University, Baybay City, Leyte, Philippines through the aid of an online survey. The data were analyzed using some descriptive statistics calculation and regression analysis was used to model the students' self-efficacy and its factors. Results showed that, on average, the students' self-efficacy level is considered "moderate" amidst the pandemic. This means that most of these students are still having mathematical anxiety and experiencing hindrances in achieving good academic performance in mathematics online. The statistical model revealed that the demographic and learning profile of students is not significantly influencing the level of self-efficacy. In addition to that, the mathematics teachers' intervention has shown also an insignificant influence on the students' self-efficacy. In conclusion, students during the pandemic are having difficulty adopting a new type of learning (distant/online) due to their moderate level of self-efficacy. Hence, the study recommends that teachers must make the learning environment exciting and interesting to boost the students' motivation and self-efficacy in doing their mathematics tasks. Furthermore, teachers must give mathematics activities that are suitable and doable for online learning that enhances students' creative thinking.