Student Performance in Mathematics and its Impact on Learning STEM Subjects

Though mathematics represents the last letter in STEM, many believe that it is ranked first with regard to importance. Mathematics contributes to the understanding of the ideas and concepts of all other subjects, especially in integrating STEM education programs. The objective of this research is to give information on student mathematics performance and make suggestions about how the results may affect learning about STEM subjects. A total of 510 Form 1 students, on average, 13 years old, consisted of 235 males and 275 females, participated in this cross-sectional study. A year-end mathematics examination consisted of 44 items in a partial credit format is used as an instrument. Using the Rasch measurement model framework, responses from the exam were utilized to calibrate the items according to their level of difficulty. The results show that students have difficulty in answering items related to the topic of (1) linear inequalities, followed by (2) ratios, rates, and proportions, as well as (3) algebraic expressions. However, they demonstrate mastery in answering items related to the topics of (1) linear equations, (2) factors and multiples, and (3) perimeters and areas. We believe that knowledge in these areas would enable teachers to prepare more successful activities related to the inclusion of STEM subjects in classroom instruction and learning. Creating a robot or building models is meaningless if students are unable to obtain a deep understanding of the concepts associated with mathematics.