Attitude towards mathematics and its relationship with perceived career choices among 9th class students

Abstract

Proficiency in languages, science, and mathematics is seen as an essential precursor to success in modem society. Among the above, mathematics is increasingly becoming key factor that is influencing the careers. Mathematics is the abstract science which investigates deductively the conclusion implicit in the elementary conceptions of numerical and spatial relations. It is a systematized and organized science. It is a science of logical reasoning. It enables to understand and appreciate precision, brevity, sharpness, logic, beauty of numbers. Mathematics is the study of abstractions and their relationship in which the only technique of reasoning that may be used to confirm any relationship. The place of mathematics in modem education system is determined by an analysis of the culture of the modem society. The Kothari commission (1964) rightly emphasized that the study of mathematics plays a prominent part in modem education. The importance of mathematics in modem education has been recognized across the world. According to Roger Bacon "Mathematics is a gate way and key of all the sciences". Hence in all the sciences and information technology the knowledge of mathematics is very much essential and useful. Mathematics helps to develop soft skills, like self confidence, logical and critical thinking, self- reliance, sense of appreciation, scientific attitude, problem solving etc. Therefore, the research on mathematics had made it evident that society, community and parents are much keener than before to impart better mathematical abilities among their children. It is also very pertinent for every mathematics teacher to develop positive attitude towards learning mathematics among students. The positive attitude is helpful in improving up the thinking level of the students and plays a significant role in the development of different mental abilities.