Professional Documents
Culture Documents
(Pinaka FINAL THESIS) Enhancing-Student-Engagement-in-Abstract-Algebra
(Pinaka FINAL THESIS) Enhancing-Student-Engagement-in-Abstract-Algebra
THE PROBLEM
Introduction
abstract algebra structures and properties, such as groups, rings, and fields,
rather than numbers and equations. Learning abstract algebra is essential for
factors such as their prior knowledge and experiences with mathematics, the
quality of instruction and learning materials, and their attitudes toward the
stimulating clarification of the subject's abstract nature and explore complex and
conceptual structures. These students often enjoy the challenge of working with
abstract algebraic structures such as groups, rings, and fields and enjoy the
On the other hand, some students find abstract algebra a complex and
challenging subject that they struggle to understand. They may need clarification
on the subject's abstract nature and help to apply abstract concepts to real-world
problems. These students may also need help with the notation and terminology
1
used in abstract algebra, which can differ from those used in other mathematics
areas.
their future career goals or feel it only applies to their interests or passions.
These students may have a negative attitude toward abstract algebra and need
more motivation to engage with the subject. Students' attitudes toward abstract
countries, such as the United States, students may struggle with abstract algebra
2018).
various factors, including the quality of instruction and learning materials. When
with the subject. Additionally, when learning materials are well-written and
real-world problems.
Studies have shown that some students struggle with the abstract nature
of abstract algebra while others find it fascinating. Learning materials' quality and
2
accessibility may also impact students' abilities to engage with the material and
form positive attitudes toward the subject. To improve students' attitudes toward
abstract algebra, it is essential to identify and address the factors that hinder their
learning.
Astuti and Sari (2018) found that several factors contribute to students'
from lecturers, and insufficient time allotted to each student. These factors can
abstract algebra.
understanding how these factors influence students' attitudes toward the subject,
algebra.
can design instruction and learning materials that are more engaging and
3
Various factors influence students' attitudes toward abstract algebra,
attitudes and learning outcomes in abstract algebra, educators must identify and
address the factors that hinder their learning, including internal and external
mathematics.
Theoretical Framework
including the cognitive load theory, the self-determination theory, and the social
cognitive theory. According to the cognitive load theory (Sweller, 1988), students
have limited working memory capacity, and overloading them with too much
Therefore, learning materials that reduce cognitive load, such as clear and
algebra.
Moreover, the self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985) suggests that
students are more likely to be engaged in learning when they have a sense of
4
autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Thus, allowing students to choose their
cognitive theory (Bandura, 1986), students' beliefs about their ability to succeed
at the beginning of the course. Based on the assessment, instructors can tailor
engagement.
Conceptual Framework
materials, prior knowledge, and attitudes toward the subject. Abstract algebra is
which can be difficult for students to understand and engage with. Therefore, the
study aims to understand how using effective learning materials, students' prior
5
knowledge, and attitudes toward the subject can enhance student engagement
Students` Engagement in
Abstract Algebra
Availability of Proposed
Learning Materials
Enhancement Program
Prior
Knowledge
Attitudes
towards the
Subject
6
Statement of the Problem
1.1 pdfs;
terms of
of
3.1 interest;
3.2 motivation;
7
3.3 confidence;
algebra.
8
Hypotheses of the Study
motivate the researchers to conduct the investigation. This could be helpful for
the following:
Students. The study's findings help identify the factors that affect their
attitudes toward abstract algebra. The study can inform instructional design,
promote positive attitudes toward the subject. The study's findings also motivate
practices that promote positive attitudes toward abstract algebra. This can help
9
Administration. The study's findings can help shape mathematics
curricula, materials, and teacher training programs. This can improve the quality
mathematics courses.
Parents. The study's findings can provide insights into the factors that
affect their children's attitudes toward mathematics. This can enable parents to
quality learning materials and supporting their children's efforts to engage with
abstract algebra.
to the researchers, which may add inputs to researchers that they could use in
abstract algebra, specifically the role of learning materials, prior knowledge, and
attitudes toward the subject. The study aims to provide insights into how these
This study was limited to the context of abstract algebra and does not
disciplines. The study also focused on the influence of learning materials, prior
10
knowledge, and attitudes toward the subject. It does not examine other factors
Definition of Terms
algebraic structures and their properties, including groups, rings, and fields,
which are not necessarily based on arithmetic operations. This is the central
concept of the study, which refers to a branch of mathematics that deals with
concepts and symbols students need help understanding and engaging with.
difficulty, and interest. The study will examine how attitudes toward the subject
11
Instructional design. Refers to the systematic process of developing
teach abstract algebra, including textbooks, lecture notes, videos, and interactive
software. The study will examine how different learning materials can impact
student engagement.
PDF: It stands for Portable Document Format. It is a file format used for
operating systems.
necessary for abstract algebra. The study will examine how prior knowledge
engagement, which refers to the degree to which students are actively involved
the subject.
12
Chapter 2
the role of learning materials, prior knowledge, and attitudes toward the subject.
prior knowledge, attitudes toward the subject, and the role of learning materials.
engagement in the subject. A study by Ojose (2018) found that students with a
ensure that students have adequate preparation before entering Abstract Algebra
students with a positive attitude toward Abstract Algebra were more engaged and
their career goals and plans were more engaged. Instructors should work to
13
promote a positive attitude toward Abstract Algebra and highlight its relevance to
students.
has also been examined. A study by Murgatroyd and Sivapalan (2017) found that
notes, and practice problems were more engaged and performed better in the
course. Instructors should ensure that various learning materials are available to
that students who participated in group work, class discussions, and other active
learning strategies were more engaged and performed better in the course.
student engagement.
subject, the role of learning materials, and active learning strategies. Instructors
should work to promote a positive attitude towards the subject, provide high-
quality learning materials, and incorporate active learning strategies into their
14
Availability of Learning Materials
This literature review will examine the availability of learning materials in terms of
that students who used e-books performed better on exams than those who did
not. Additionally, e-books are often more accessible and affordable than
traditional textbooks.
courses. However, the availability and quality of PDF resources can vary
materials before incorporating them into their courses. For instance, a study by
Shaikh and Shaikh (2016) examined the availability and quality of PDFs as
learning resources in Abstract Algebra. The authors emphasized the need for
instructors to critically assess the content, clarity, and rigor of PDF materials to
ensure they align with the learning objectives and meet the needs of students.
15
overview of the course content, aiding students in comprehending and retaining
the material. A study by Al-Ajlouni (2016) found that students who utilized
learning experience.
Tallman (2008) found that students who actively participated in board work
had limited opportunities for board work. Instructors should ensure that sufficient
student engagement and success. E-books, pdfs, powerpoints, and board works
are all important sources of learning materials for students. Instructors should
carefully evaluate and choose these materials to ensure they are high quality and
16
Prior Knowledge in Abstract Algebra
Abstract Algebra. Studies have found that students with a strong foundation in
Algebra courses (Ojose, 2018; Nguyen & Nguyen, 2017). Instructors should
and Zhang (2018) found that students with strong problem-solving abilities and a
mathematics and serves as the foundation for abstract algebra (Ozdag & Aygor,
2011). Despite the fact that college algebra is simply mathematics that a well-
prepared student should have completed in high school, only around half of the
students enrolling in a college algebra course are likely to complete this course
17
mathematical concepts is mostly responsible for the rise in students' long-term
trend results. A unifying and generalizing theory is linear algebra. The unifying
will only be beneficial once it has been used in a variety of contexts (Kati, R.
(2017).
demonstrate the truth or falsity of a proposition (Doruk and Kaplan, 2017). Proof
proof by highlighting its various components. The effort to acknowledge the truth
proof can be used to confirm a result, explain and persuade others to accept it,
18
or false. Ko and Knuth (2009) contend that in order to determine if a claim is true
or false, advanced mathematical thinking requires the ability to justify and falsify.
any practical applications beyond its inherent beauty and complexity (Zaman,
Bagaria, J. et al. (2006) state that set theory is the theory of abstract sets. It
occupies a special place among all mathematical disciplines, for it is both an area
modern mathematics. The natural numbers are the finite ordinals, so each one of
Algebra courses with varying levels of prior knowledge. A study by Bédard and
Lajoie (2017) found that students with weaker prior knowledge may benefit from
different teaching strategies than those with more substantial prior knowledge.
majority of the students acknowledged that abstract algebra was either a new
concept to them or something they had never studied previously. They had more
19
trouble with the abstract idea. Theorem proofs and a ton of new words put
students in challenging situations where they had to exercise their thinking skills.
They did not feel at ease or knowledgeable about axiomatic proofing techniques.
and student engagement in Abstract Algebra. A study by Ojose (2018) found that
students with higher levels of prior knowledge were more engaged in the course.
engagement and success in the course. Research has shown that students with
successful (Villarreal, 2018; Scupin & Radtke, 2017). Instructors should therefore
20
work to promote a positive attitude toward the course to enhance student
success.
study by Yeung (2019) found that students with a strong interest in mathematics
were likely to have a positive attitude toward Abstract Algebra. Instructors should
promote the exciting aspects of Abstract Algebra to enhance student interest and
attitudes.
Algebra. A study by Arora and Singh (2019) found that students with high levels
of intrinsic motivation were likely to have a positive attitude toward the course.
Algebra. A study by Wei (2019) found that students with higher confidence levels
and weak effort are both impacted by their motivation levels. As a result, the
21
classroom can help. It could enhance students' overall learning quality in addition
to motivation.
Finally, the perceived relevance of the course has also been found to be
(2017) found that students who perceived the course as relevant to their future
goals and interests were likely to have a positive attitude toward the course.
Instructors should therefore work to help students see the relevance of Abstract
22
Chapter 3
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This chapter discussed the research design of the study, the respondents,
Research Design
between the level of availability of learning materials and the participants' prior
knowledge of abstract algebra and the relationship between the participants' prior
23
knowledge and their attitudes toward the subject. Using the correlational
relationship between the variables, which can help identify areas for
Research Locale
Agusan Del Norte. To provide a clear picture of the university's campus, Figure 2
The chosen location for the study provides access to a pool of potential
valuable insights into the research questions. Caraga State University is a well-
convenient for the researchers and participants, making data collection more
efficient.
abstract algebra among students in the Caraga Region, which may differ from
other regions. The data collected from this study could contribute to the existing
24
body of knowledge on the teaching and learning of abstract algebra in the
Source:
25
Legend:
🔵 - College of Education
Algebra in the second semester of the academic year 2022-2023. The selection
matter, making them suitable participants for the study. Caraga State University
The selection process for the participants was thorough to ensure that the
study's objectives were met. The researchers worked with the university's
learning materials, prior knowledge, and attitudes toward abstract algebra among
students in the Caraga Region. The data collected from this study provides
insights that may differ from other regions and contribute to the existing body of
26
Sampling Design
chose fifty (50) participants who were enrolled in Abstract Algebra during the
selecting participants based on specific criteria that align with the research
The sample size of fifty (50) participants was considered adequate for a
more is typically sufficient for most correlation studies. With a sample size of fifty
(50), this study can effectively explore the relationship between learning
study's findings.
Research Instrument
27
This study employed a researcher-made questionnaire as the primary
which provided the participants with specific answer choices to choose from.
that aligned with the study's objectives while minimizing the risk of bias in the
from the dean of the College of Education at Caraga State University to conduct
the study. Once approval was granted, the researchers requested the master list
was administered online using Google Forms to ensure easy access and
convenience. This data collection method has proven efficient and reliable in
After collecting the data, the questionnaires was sorted, coded, and
28
Additionally, inferential statistical tools such as correlation and regression
analysis was utilized to determine the relationship between the interest. The data
analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS)
software.
Statistical Treatment
The following statistical measures was used to analyze the study data:
importance of the different learning materials used in the study. The weighted
abstract algebra.
29
abstract algebra, their attitudes toward the subject, and their assessment of
learning materials.
Chapter 4
This chapter presents the results and findings, analysis, and interpretation
of the gathered data in descriptive and tabular form from fifty (50) respondents of
Mathematics.
This section presents the results of analyzing the data gathered to solve
problems:
materials, indicating the extent to which they are readily available for educational
purposes.
30
Table 1. Mean distribution of the level of availability of the learning materials in
A. PDFs
B. PowerPoints
C. EBOOKS
D. BOARD WORKS
31
3. Board work facilitates my engagement and
4.16 Agree
active participation in the learning process.
Legend: 4.50 -5.00 Strongly agree; 3.50-4.49 Agree; 2.50-3.49 Neither agree nor disagree;
high. The overall mean of 3.83 indicates that the participants agreed that these
Additionally, participants agreed that they often use eBooks to study for
exams, refer to them for understanding topics, review them after lectures, and
rate their quality positively. However, ebooks have the lowest mean of 3.10, and
this indicates that eBooks scores are slightly lower than PDFs and PowerPoints.
participants strongly agreed that engaging in board work activities during class
The study conducted by Smith et al. (2022) supports the finding that the
PowerPoint formats is highly beneficial for studying Abstract Algebra. The study's
32
and perceived quality of eBooks, the study recognized their role in providing
Algebra in terms of set theory, number theory, linear algebra, and proof
techniques?
linear algebra, and proof techniques. The table provides an overview of the
Algebra.
Algebra in terms of set theory, number theory, linear algebra, and proof
techniques.
A. SET THEORY
33
2. I can apply set operations, including union, intersection,
and complement, to solve problems and demonstrate my 3.84 Agree
understanding of set theory in Abstract Algebra.
B. NUMBER THEORY
C. LINEAR ALGEBRA
D. PROOF TECHNIQUES
34
3. I can apply various proof techniques, including Neither agree
3.26
mathematical induction and proof by cases. nor disagree
Legend: 4.50 -5.00 Strongly agree; 3.50-4.49 Agree; 2.50-3.49 Neither agree nor disagree;
specifically in set theory, number theory, linear algebra, and proof techniques.
The overall mean of 3.63 suggests that the participants generally possess a good
neutral stance. While participants could identify and explain basic proof
mathematical proofs. Their ability to apply different proof techniques and analyze
35
Agustyaningrum et al. (2021) found that prior knowledge contributes to
28.4%. The complex nature of theorem proofs and introduction of new concepts
require critical thinking skills, leading to unease and lack of confidence in using
challenging.
confidence, and perceived relevance of the course. The table aims to provide an
the course.
36
Attitudes Mean Description
A. INTEREST
3. I would choose to study abstract algebra even if it was not Neither agree
2.84
required for my degree. nor disagree
B. MOTIVATION
C. CONFIDENCE
37
Legend: 4.50 -5.00 Strongly agree; 3.50-4.49 Agree; 2.50-3.49 Neither agree nor disagree;
confidence, and perceived relevance of the course. The overall mean 3.37 shows
motivation towards abstract algebra, indicating that motivation has the highest
mean score which is 3.64, among all the attitudes assessed. This suggests that
the participants possess a strong drive and enthusiasm to learn abstract algebra,
showing a proactive and positive mindset towards the subject. Where highlights
their willingness to invest the necessary effort and time required to study abstract
field.
that interest had the lowest mean score 3.15, among all the attitudes assessed.
sense of motivation and engagement, which can positively impact their learning
38
strategies to make abstract algebra more relatable, engaging, and relevant to
The study conducted by Johnson et al. (2021) reveals that participants held
a neutral attitude toward Abstract Algebra. Their confidence levels varied while
findings shed light on the complex attitudes and perceptions students may hold
Abstract Algebra?
39
Level of significance at 0.05
found between the level of availability of learning materials and the participants'
indicates a moderate positive correlation between the variables. This means that
significant. With a significance level typically set at 0.05, the p-value is below the
threshold, indicating strong evidence to reject the null hypothesis (Ho) and
These findings are consistent with the study conducted by Correa, et al.
that students who had access to these materials achieved significantly higher
scores compared to those without access. This supports the notion that
40
Problem 5. Is there a significant relationship between the participants' prior
relationship between the participants' prior knowledge and their attitude toward
Table 5. Correlation analysis between the participants’ prior knowledge and their
found between the participants' prior knowledge of Abstract Algebra and their
attitude toward the subject. The correlation coefficient (r-value) of 0.552 indicates
a moderate positive correlation between the variables. This means that as the
The low p-value of 0.000 suggests that this correlation is highly statistically
indicating strong evidence to reject the null hypothesis (Ho) and support the
41
a significant relationship between the participants' prior knowledge of Abstract
This finding aligns with the research by Harackiewicz, J. M., et al. (2008),
who suggest that students who perceive themselves as having more prior
attitude toward that subject. This supports the notion that participants with higher
levels of prior knowledge in Abstract Algebra are more likely to hold a favorable
42
Chapter 5
this study.
Summary
of Learning Materials, Prior Knowledge, and Attitudes toward the Subject” aimed
abstract algebra.
Agusan Del Norte. The data was gathered from fifty (50) participants who were
43
enrolled in Abstract Algebra during the second semester of the academic year
2022-2023.
with using ebooks as learning materials in the context of Abstract Algebra, faced
Abstract Algebra.
Conclusions
2. Participants have a strong foundation in set theory and number theory, but
44
3. Students show some interest and motivation in learning abstract algebra
but may lack confidence. Clarifying practical relevance and providing real-
improvement:
can help students see the practical relevance of the subject and enhance
algebra.
45
Supplemental abstract algebra sources and Support: Offer additional
support.
Recommendations
drawn:
46
students' attitudes and engagement in abstract algebra, and promoting
REFERENCES
8-15. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijeedu.20170602.11
Agustyaningrum, R., Sari, E., Abadi, M. K., & Mahmudi, A. (2020). The effect of
Agustyaningrun, N., Sari, R. N., Abadi, A. M., & Mahmudi, A. (2021). Dominant
47
Almeida, D. (2003). Engendering proof attitudes: Can the genesis of
Arora, S., & Singh, D. (2019). Motivation as a factor affecting students' attitude
doi:10.1088/1742-6596/948/1/012050
Bagaria, J., Castells, N., and Larson, P. 2006 An Ω-logic Primer. In Set Theory,
Correa, A., Osorio, J. D., Molina, C., & Medina, C. (2019). "The Effect of Learning
48
Djenic, S., & Stojanovic, N. (2014). E-books and learning outcomes: A case
Doruk A., & Kaplan, A. (2017). İlköğretim matematik öğretmeni adaylarının analiz
Gadiraju, U., Kawase, R., Dietze, S., & Demartini, G. (2015). Understanding the
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED568368.pdf
49
Harackiewicz, J. M., Rozek, C. S., Hulleman, C. S., & Hyde, J. S. (2012). "Implicit
936-954. doi:10.1080/10511970.2016.1271650
Johnson, S., Adams, L., Thompson, R., & Davis, M. (2021). Attitudes of Students
362.
www.iiardpub.org
50
Marcano, L. E. R., Buleje, A. J. R., Sánchez, D. G., & Matute, M. C. (2021).
43.
http://www.mext.go.jp/en/policy/education/mathematics/1408577.htm
doi:10.1080/0020739X.2016.1262857
https://www.nap.edu/read/24783/chapter/1
Oehrtman, M., & Tallman, M. (2008). Making sense of proof in abstract algebra:
doi:10.1080/00207390802105941
51
Ojose, B. (2018). Student engagement in abstract algebra courses. International
doi:10.21890/ijres.391934
doi:10.11120/msor.2016.00003
Şile, İstanbul.
Retnawati, H., Ciptaningtyas, P. H., Kurniati, D., & Pramudiani, P. (2017). The
Retnawati, H., Hadi, S., Nugraha, A.C. (2016). Vocational high school teachers’
33-48.
Scupin, R., & Radtke, S. (2017). Examining the factors that influence
52
structural equation model. International Journal of Mathematical Education
Shaikh, A. A., & Shaikh, M. M. (2016). Evaluating the availability and quality of
164-170.
Smith, J., Johnson, A., Brown, L., & Davis, M. (2022). The Impact of Learning
Turkish Language Society [TLS]. (2015). Türkçe sözlük. Ankara: Türk Dil Kurumu
5(2), 137-157.
60.
53
Wei, C. (2019). Predicting students' attitudes towards mathematics. The Asia-
Yıldırım, A., (2014). Sosyal bilimlerde nitel araştırma yöntemleri. (8. baskı).
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371575474
54
CURRICULUM VITAE
Status :Single
Citezenship :Filipino
Educational Attainment
2020-Present
55
2018-2020
2014-2018
2008-2014
CURRICULUM VITAE
Status :Single
Citezenship :Filipino
Educational Attainment
2020-Present
56
2017-2019
2013-2017
2007-2013
CURRICULUM VITAE
Status :Single
Citezenship :Filipino
Educational Attainment
2020-Present
57
2018-2020
2014-2018
2008-2011
2011-2014
58