An Analysis of Student Attitudes towards Mathematical Concepts in Biology
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Lowe, Nicholas
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Abstract
This study investigates undergraduate biology students' attitudes toward mathematical concepts in biological contexts, emphasizing their interest, utility, and perceived costs using the Math-Biology Values Instrument (MBVI). A survey of 704 students at a large R1 university in the Southeast revealed significant differences across demographic groups. Male and pre-professional students demonstrated higher interest and utility compared to female and pre-medical students; female students also demonstrated higher costs compared to male students. Notably, first-year students exhibited no significant differences from upperclassmen in any construct. Correlations showed positive relationships between interest and utility and negative relationships between interest and cost. The findings highlight the necessity of integrating mathematical training into biology curricula to enhance student engagement and career readiness. Recommendations include incorporating math within biology courses and tailoring instruction to demographic-specific motivational factors. This research underscores the importance of understanding student values to improve the integration of quantitative skills in life science education.
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Undergraduate Research Option Thesis