A Qualitative Investigation into Student and Teacher Perceptions of Motivation and Engagement in the Secondary Mathematics Classroom

Abstract

This qualitative case study aimed to investigate what teachers and students perceive as the key factors that drive student motivation and student engagement in the mathematics classroom. A year ten mathematics class was selected within a school in the Lake Macquarie region of NSW. Observations were made of the class and interviews were conducted with the teacher and four students. From the data it emerged that the key factor driving student motivation and student engagement in the mathematics classroom is the learning environment and particularly the notion of relationships, specifically the student-teacher relationship. This relationship, when based on the qualities of authenticity, belief, empowerment and life-long learning, enhances student motivation and engagement.