The impact of perceived executive function on the middle school students' mathematics achievement scores

Mathematics is among the most important subjects in the middle school curriculum, yet the most hated subjects by students. The present study investigated the role of perceived executive functioning on the middle school student's mathematics achievement, after controlling for other psychological factors. Results showed that the students’ levels of executive functioning was predictive of their mathematics achievement test scores, even after motivational and attitude variables were controlled. The impact of the executive functioning was especially noticeable for the low achievers. On the other hand, for those whose scores were high, biological variables were the only significant predictors of their scores. The results of the present study imply that the intervention programs for improving mathematics achievement of middle school students should consider the different effect of cognitive and psychological factors on their achievements. Key Words : Mathematics achievement, Executive functioning, Middle school