Effects of Concept Cartoons on Mathematics Self-Efficacy of 7th Grade Students

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to determine the effect of concept cartoons on the students' perception of their levels of self-efficacy towards mathematics. The research has been designed as the pre-test post-test with quasi experimental control group. The research participants are composed of 94 7th grade students attending an elementary school on the European side of Istanbul during the 2008-2009 Academic Year. Algebraic expressions and Equations were taught during four weeks by using sixteen concept cartoons which were developed in this study. Homogenous groups, each consisting of four students sharing the same opinions, were utilized in order to enable them to discuss the concepts more comprehensively and to question their own thinking patterns by creating a social learning environment. The data of the research was collected by Mathematical Self Efficacy Levels Perception Scale and through the written opinions of the students about implementation process. While the quantitative data was analyzed by performing the t-test for dependent and independent samples, the qualitative data was descriptively analyzed. The results of the research have shown that concept cartoons have a significant effect on the students' perception of their level of mathematical self-efficacy. Besides, it was found out that students liked concept cartoons very much, their interest to the lesson was increased and they believed they could do mathematics lesson. In the light of the findings of this study, the researchers have developed suggestions for those who will conduct further researches on concept cartoons.