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Turning Fear into Fascination: Exploring Math Teachers’ Experiences in Shaping Positive Classroom Attitudes Toward Math
Open AccessJournal Type: Research ArticleSubject: EducationSubject Field: Secondary EducationVolume:185, Issue: 1, November, 2025Publish Date: 1 January 2026

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Pages: 1-25

Abstract

Mathematics is often regarded as one of the most challenging and anxiety-inducing subjects among learners, which hampers both academic performance and student confidence. This study, Turning Fear into Fascination: Exploring Math Teachers Experiences in Shaping Positive Classroom Attitudes Toward Math, examines the lived experiences of secondary school mathematics teachers in transforming students negative perceptions into more positive and engaging outlooks. Anchored in Social Cognitive Theory, Math Anxiety Theory, Constructivist Learning Theory, and Self-Determination Theory, the research highlights the emotional, cognitive, and instructional dimensions of teaching mathematics. Employing a qualitative phenomenological design, the study purposively selected five licensed math teachers with extensive classroom experience and conducted semi-structured interviews to capture their challenges, strategies, and reflections. Thematic analysis revealed that teachers face recurring obstacles such as students foundational skill gaps, prior negative experiences, and fear of judgment that hinder participation and confidence. To address these, teachers employ contextualized and relatable examples, collaborative and student-centered approaches, and emotionally safe environments that normalize mistakes and celebrate effort. Teacher enthusiasm and dedication emerged as critical factors in enhancing student motivation, confidence, and engagement, as well as in reshaping attitudes toward mathematics. Findings underscore the pivotal role of teacher-student relationships, emotional support, and sustained commitment in turning math fear into fascination. The study contributes valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and curriculum developers, emphasizing the need for supportive learning environments, early interventions, and professional development to foster equitable and quality mathematics education.

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