Attitudes to science: part of the puzzle to improve educational achievement?

Abstract

This paper examines the relationship between attitudes to learning science and science achievement in South Africa. TIMSS 2011 science achievement data and science attitudinal indices of enjoyment, valuing science and self-confidence in ability to learn science, are used to examine this. All three indices were found to contribute significantly to the science performance of Grade 9 learners. The findings highlight the need to focus on the non-cognitive aspects in educational interventions in order to improve science achievement in the country.