MPWG: Gaining Confidence in Math: Intelligent Tutors for for Girls and Women

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9555737 Beal Mathematics is required for work in most sciences, yet many girls lose confidence in their ability to do math and take the course requirements, thus ensuring that women will be underrepresented in science. Prior research indicates that a critical factor contributing to girls' declining self confidence in their math competence is the type of instruction and performance feedback typically provided by classroom teachers. The goal of this project is to utilize the power of intelligent computer based tutoring systems to enhance the confidence, motivation, and skill mastery of female students in elementary grades 3 - 5. We will apply intervention before late elementary school, the point at which gender differences in attitudes towards math become apparent. The intelligent computer tutor is designed on the basis of research indicating that female students benefit from and appreciate pedagogy that reflects a) exploration rather than competition; b) an interface and environment that includes females (versus software based on male students' interests); c) the provision of confidence enhancing feedback that sets high expectations, provides specific information about how to overcome errors, and emphasizes appropriate effort rather than native ability as key to math success.