Grit of Mathematically Aligned Students: An Inventory

Joel Iglesia Alvarez; Gerald De Guzman Mabuti; Sheryl Cana Buenaventura

Joel Iglesia Alvarez College of Education, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Philippines
Gerald De Guzman Mabuti College of Education, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Philippines
Sheryl Cana Buenaventura College of Education, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Philippines

Keywords: grit, mathematically aligned students, performance, problem solving skills

Abstract

There is an undeniable substantial impact of non-cognitive elements, such as drive, grit, and beliefs, on students' academic achievement, specifically in mathematics. A favorable correlation between grit and undergraduate grade averages was emphasized and established in the previous investigations. Grit predicts good performance in different situations. This study is a descriptive correlational investigation that attempts to evaluate and document the levels of grit among students who are currently enrolled in the BSE – Mathematics program at a State University in the Philippines. The study includes a total of 143 participants. The results demonstrate a gradual increase in perseverance and passion for long-term goals over the school years. First-year Mathematics major students generally have low levels of perseverance and passion, while second-year students demonstrate high levels of perseverance and passion. By the third year, kids exhibit exceptionally high levels of perseverance and passion. Regardless of these variations, all students constantly demonstrate a lack of interest constancy and an average level of endurance in their efforts. These findings indicate that the College and University should implement specific interventions to improve students' levels of perseverance and passion for long-term goals. Creating holistic programs and strategies to cultivate these non-cognitive skills might enable students to fully actualize their potential in their academic pursuits and future professional endeavors. By cultivating a greater level of perseverance and resilience, educational institutions can have a substantial influence on students' long-term achievements and academic outcomes.

Author Biographies

Joel Iglesia Alvarez, College of Education, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Philippines

Joel Iglesia Alvarez holds a Bachelor of Secondary Education in Mathematics from Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), where he was recognized as the Best Student Researcher. He has taught Junior High School at the College of the Immaculate Conception for two years and is currently completing his Ph.D. in Mathematics Education at NEUST. Mr. Alvarez has actively participated in various international and local seminars, earning the University Best Paper award for 2023 and 2024. He is an Assistant Professor I and Chair for Research, Extension, and Training at the NEUST College of Education.

Gerald De Guzman Mabuti, College of Education, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Philippines

Gerald dG. Mabuti, who graduated from Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) with a Bachelor of Secondary Education in Mathematics, achieved the ninth spot on the Licensure Examination for Teachers in 2017. He has been a teacher at the Aliaga National High School for the past five years, and he is currently working toward earning his Ph.D. in Mathematics Education from the National University of Science and Technology (NEUST). Mr. Mabuti has been an active participant in a number of different seminars, both locally and internationally. At the moment, he is participating in the NEUST College of Education as an Instructor I.

Sheryl Cana Buenaventura, College of Education, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Philippines

Sheryl C. Buenaventura, obtained a degree on Bachelor of Secondary Education in Mathematics earned from the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST). Over the course of the past four years, she has been working as a professor at the College of Education, NEUST. It is noteworthy that Ms. Buenaventura has been an active participant in a variety of local and international seminars. Her current position in the NEUST College of Education is that of an Assistant Professor I.