Cross-validating a bidimensional mathematics anxiety scale.
The psychometric properties of a 14-item bidimensional Mathematics Anxiety Scale-Revised (MAS-R) were empirically cross-validated with two independent samples consisting of 647 secondary school students. An exploratory factor analysis on the scale yielded strong construct validity with a clear two-factor structure. The results from a confirmatory factor analysis indicated an excellent model-fit (χ(2) = 98.32, df = 62; normed fit index = .92, comparative fit index = .97; root mean square error of approximation = .04). The internal consistency (.85), test-retest reliability (.71), interfactor correlation (.26, p < .001), and positive discrimination power indicated that MAS-R is a psychometrically reliable and valid instrument for measuring mathematics anxiety. Math anxiety, as measured by MAS-R, correlated negatively with student achievement scores (r = -.38), suggesting that MAS-R may be a useful tool for classroom teachers and other educational personnel tasked with identifying students at risk of reduced math achievement because of anxiety.
Haiyan Bai
Department of Educational Research, Technology, and Leadership, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA. hbai@mail.ucf.edu
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D001007:Anxiety / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology*; D002648:Child; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008433:Mathematics / Q000193:education*; D008960:Models, Psychological; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011594:Psychometrics / Q000592:standards*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D013315:Stress, Psychological; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology*