Grade-Level, Gender and Ethnic Differences in Attitudes and Learning Environment in High School Mathematics by Castillo, G.E., Peiro, M.M., & Fraser,

Reflections:
The objectives of the study presented were very clear. There seemed to be three studies all in one research. Although the sample was relatively small (600 participants), the study was a starting point in helping one look into “gender and ethnic differences in attitudes and learning environments in high school mathematics”. I reflect upon how this affects me in three ways: as a filipino, as an educator and as a parent. At this point, our university president (himself a mathematics person), has been expending much effort in making our university (in the Philippines-the Ateneo de Manila University), very much globally competitive especially in terms of mathematics and science. The Filipinos, worldwide are usually known to be talented especially in the arts. However, although we have had great inventors and mathematicians, that is not what we are known for globally. The possibilities of replicating this study with the end goal in mind of helping students have better attitudes towards mathematics and science in my school, country are there. As an educator, knowing the relationship between student outcomes, attitudes and learning environments is a responsibility and a challenge I have to meet.