STUDENTS’ MATHEMATICS SELF-EFFICACY AND MATHEMATICAL LITERACY ABILITIES

Mathematics self-efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their ability to effectively and successfully handle mathematics-related tasks and overcome challenges at predetermined levels.The research literature frequently emphasizes the statistically significant positive correlation between mathematics self-efficacy and both mathematics performance and mathematical literacy achievement.In this research, the mathematics self-efficacy index is calculated as a single composite measure; however, it is further subdivided into four distinct subcategories: self-efficacy in solving mathematical exercises or equations without context, self-efficacy in addressing real-world problems, self-efficacy in mathematical literacy skills, and self-efficacy in information literacy skills.This present study aims to examine students' mathematical literacy skills upon completion of compulsory education in Greece and to address the research question of whether a statistically significant correlation exists between students' mathematical literacy performance and the mathematics self-efficacy factor, both as a single composite measure and when divided into the four previously identified subcategories.The study was conducted with a sample of 650 students from across Greece who were completing their compulsory education.The schools attended by the sampled students were selected based on the level of urbanization of their respective areas, specifically categorized into three levels: major urban centers, small urban centers, and rural areas.The findings of the study indicate a statistically significant positive correlation between performance in mathematical literacy and the single factor of mathematics self-efficacy.Additionally, a statistically significant positive correlation was observed between performance in mathematical literacy and each of the four distinct subcategories within the single factor of mathematics self-efficacy: (1) self-efficacy in solving abstract mathematical exercises or equations, (2) self-efficacy in addressing real-world problems, (3) self-efficacy in mathematical literacy skills, and (4) self-efficacy in information literacy skills.