UNDERSTANDING STUDENTS’ STRUGGLES

IN MATHEMATICS: IDENTIFYING CHALLENGES

AND STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVEMENT

Submitted by:

RODULFO JAMES GACUS

KHENT MATTEIJO LUGO
JISHA VIRTUDAZO
ALEXA LAPIÑA
ASHLEY ATAP
DAVE BAGUIO
JECEL TOPACIO
JANICHA LUCERO
JM AMBOS
I. INTRODUCTION

In a world where students have different views on learning, and some who understand

specific topics better than others. However, despite all of these differences most of the

students has one similar difficulty, mathematics.

Mathematics is the science and study of quality, structure, space, and change.

Mathematicians seek out patterns, formulate new conjectures, and establish truth by

rigorous deduction from appropriately chosen axioms and definitions. Many students

have trouble with this integrated subject, most might find it more difficult than others. It’s

not uncommon to hear students complain that they discern this subject as because it is

difficult to comprehend. But why do so many students seem to share this problem? What

makes math so difficult for students to learn?

This study refers to students’ struggling in mathematics, specifically highlighting the

difficulties and obstacles that contribute to their struggles. It aims to explore the various

factors that hinders students’ understanding of this specific problem, including difficulty

learning, ineffective study methods, and mental difficulties such as dyscalculia and

dyslexia. The study also investigates potential solutions to these problems, proposing

interventions such as personalized tutoring, the use of technology to enhance learning,

and the development of more engaging and student-centered teaching strategies.

Ultimately, the study argues that addressing these challenges through a multifaceted

approach can significantly improve students' math skills and foster a more positive

attitude toward the subject, leading to better overall academic performance and a stronger

foundation for future learning.

 This study aims to explore the challenges faced by students in learning mathematics and

identify effective strategies to improve their understanding and performance.

Specifically, it seeks to answer the following questions:

1. What are the common challenges experienced by students in understanding

mathematical concepts?

2. How do socio-economic factors, teaching methods, and learning environments

affect students’ performance in mathematics?

3. What are the perceptions of students, teachers, and parents regarding the

difficulties encountered in learning mathematics?

II. BACKROUND OF THE STUDY

This study aims to explore the various challenges faced by students in learning

mathematics, identify common misconceptions, and assess the impact of these difficulties

on their overall academic progress. Furthermore, it seeks to propose practical solutions

and strategies that educators, parents, and institutions can adopt to help students

overcome these challenges and develop a more positive attitude toward mathematics.

Despite existing interventions, several gaps remain that hinder effective learning of

mathematics:

1. Limited Confidence and Fear of Failure: Low self-confidence discourages

students from actively engaging with challenging topics, leading to avoidance and

poor performance.
 2. Reluctance to Seek Help: A significant number of students rarely seek assistance

from teachers or tutors, missing opportunities for clarification and improvement.

3. Poor Study Habits and Lack of Discipline: Many students develop ineffective

study habits, such as procrastination, lack of time management, and minimal

practice of mathematical concepts. These habits hinder their ability to retain

information and apply problem-solving strategies effectively, contributing to their

struggles in mastering mathematics.

According to the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022,

the Philippines ranked last out of 79 countries in mathematics proficiency. Only

about 19% of 15-year-old Filipino students reached the minimum proficiency

level in mathematics. OECD.(2023).

Additionally, In the Philippines, a survey conducted by the Department of

Education (DepEd) in 2021 showed that 65% of Filipino students reported feeling

anxious about mathematics, which negatively impacts their performance and

interest in the subject. Atienza, K. A. T. (2024, November 14).

Addressing these gaps is crucial for improving students' mathematical skills and fostering

a more positive attitude toward the subject. By implementing innovative teaching

approaches, integrating technology in the classroom, and strengthening teacher training

programs, educators can create a more supportive learning environment. Furthermore,

enhancing parental involvement can empower students to develop a growth mindset,

ultimately leading to better academic performance, increased self-efficacy, and higher

career aspirations. Identifying and addressing these challenges can contribute to a more
inclusive and effective educational system that prepares students for future challenges in

a competitive world.
III. Research Methodology

To gather information for this study, a combination of online sources, surveys, and

previous classroom observations was utilized. The primary sources of information

included academic articles, government reports, and credible educational websites. These

resources provided insights into the common challenges students face in mathematics, as

well as effective teaching strategies and interventions.

An online survey was conducted by sending a Google Form to a group chat of students

from the same grade level. The survey aimed to gather data on students’ perceptions of

their difficulties in mathematics, the teaching methods they found effective, and their

opinions on possible solutions. A total of 11 students participated in the survey, providing

valuable qualitative and quantitative data for analysis.

In addition, previous classroom observations were used to assess student behavior,

engagement, and understanding of mathematical concepts. These observations helped

identify patterns in student performance and highlighted gaps in teaching methods that

could be addressed.

The study also relied on the following credible sources:

What Works Clearinghouse. (2021). Assisting Students Struggling with Mathematics:

Intervention in the Elementary Grades. U.S. Department of Education. Retrieved from

https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/Docs/PracticeGuide/WWC-PraxGuide-Elementary-Math-

Summary-508c.pdf
GradePower Learning. (n.d.). Why Students Struggle with Math. Retrieved from

https://gradepowerlearning.com/resources/math-tutoring/why-students-struggle-with-

math/

Read and Spell. (n.d.). Struggling with Math. Retrieved from

https://www.readandspell.com/struggling-with-math

By combining data from surveys, classroom observations, and reliable sources, this study

aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges in learning

mathematics and propose evidence-based strategies for improvement.

IV. Findings and Analysis

The data collected from the online survey, classroom observations, and credible sources

provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by students in learning mathematics

and the strategies that can improve their performance. Below are the key findings

organized based on the research questions.

1. What are the common challenges experienced by students in understanding

mathematical concepts?

Based on the survey results, the most challenging topics identified by the respondents

were:

Calculus: Mentioned by 4 out of 11 respondents.

Geometry: Mentioned by 2 respondents.

Algebra and Statistics: Mentioned by 2 respondents each.

According to GradePower Learning (n.d.), students struggle with mathematics due to the

abstract nature of concepts, lack of confidence, and insufficient foundational skills.

2. How do socio-economic factors, teaching methods, and learning environments

affect students’ performance in mathematics?

Socio-economic Factors: Limited access to technology and tutoring services affects

students’ ability to seek additional help outside the classroom.

Teaching Methods: Classroom observations revealed that traditional methods of teaching

often focused on rote memorization rather than practical problem-solving.

Learning Environment: A lack of individualized attention in large class settings

hindered students from clarifying doubts, leading to lower confidence in their

mathematical abilities.

3. What are the perceptions of students, teachers, and parents regarding the

difficulties encountered in learning mathematics?

Survey Results:

1. Confidence in mathematical abilities varied widely, with ratings ranging from 1 to 10.

2. 3 respondents rated their confidence 1 or 2, indicating very low confidence

3. 4 respondents rated themselves between 8 and 10, showing high confidence.

Students who rated their confidence higher tended to engage in practice problems and

online tutorials, while those with lower confidence relied more on group study and

tutoring sessions.
V. Conclusion & Insights

This study explored the various challenges that students face in understanding and mastering

mathematical concepts, highlighting key factors such as poor study habits, ineffective teaching

methods, and varying confidence levels. The data gathered from the online survey, classroom

observations, and credible sources provided a comprehensive understanding of these struggles

and the strategies that can address them.

Summary of Key Findings (Survey):

 Calculus was reported as the most difficult subject by 36% (4 out of 11 respondents),

followed by Geometry (18%), and Statistics and Algebra (18%).

 The complexity of concepts, lack of foundational skills, and insufficient practice

contributed to these difficulties.

 Confidence levels among students varied widely, with 27% rating their confidence

between 1 and 2, indicating a lack of confidence.

 On the other hand, 36% of respondents rated their confidence between 8 and 10,

showing that students who engaged in practice problems and online tutorials had

higher confidence levels.

 45% of the respondents rarely sought help from teachers or tutors when they

encountered math-related challenges, which may have contributed to their struggles.

  Only 18% of the respondents reported seeking help often, indicating a need to promote

better communication between students and teachers.

 Study groups (27%) and textbooks (18%) were the most commonly used resources.

 Online courses and math apps were also mentioned, highlighting the increasing use of

technology to enhance learning.

 Practice problems emerged as the most preferred strategy by 36% of the respondents,

followed by group study (27%) and tutoring sessions (18%).

 Online tutorials and textbooks were also mentioned as effective tools in improving

understanding.

Our findings emphasize the critical need to address students' poor study habits and low

confidence levels, as these significantly impact their ability to excel in mathematics. By

understanding the gaps in teaching methods, learning environments, and available resources,

educators and policymakers can implement targeted interventions to improve mathematical

proficiency among students.

Proposed Actions and Solutions

Promote Effective Study Habits:

- Educate students on time management, consistent practice, and the importance of revisiting

concepts to reinforce learning.

- Introduce goal-setting techniques and provide regular feedback to improve discipline and

motivation.

Encourage Regular Help-Seeking Behavior:

- Foster a supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking for help from teachers

and peers.

- Implement peer tutoring programs to create a collaborative learning atmosphere.

Utilize Interactive and Technology-Based Learning:

- Incorporate math apps, online platforms, and gamified learning experiences to engage students

and provide personalized learning paths.

- Encourage the use of adaptive learning software to identify and address individual weaknesses.

Recommendations for Future Research

Investigate Long-Term Impact of Technology in Math Education:

- Future studies can explore how consistent use of interactive learning platforms affects students’

mathematical abilities over time.

Analyze the Role of Parental Support in Academic Performance:

- Examining how parental involvement influences students’ motivation and success in

mathematics can provide insights for future interventions.

Explore the Effectiveness of Peer Tutoring and Group Study:

- Further research can determine the impact of peer-assisted learning strategies on improving

students' understanding and confidence in mathematics.

Addressing the challenges identified in this study requires a collaborative approach involving

students, teachers, and parents. By fostering better study habits, integrating technology, and

promoting a positive learning environment, students can develop the necessary skills and

confidence to succeed in mathematics. These solutions not only enhance academic performance

but also contribute to building a lifelong appreciation for problem-solving and critical thinking

VI. Reflection

Throughout this research, the group faced several challenges, including difficulty in attending

meetups due to conflicting personal schedules and a lack of cooperation from some members.

These obstacles made it harder to divide tasks efficiently and meet deadlines. Despite these

difficulties, the experience taught us the importance of time management, communication, and

teamwork in completing a successful research project. Moving forward, we aim to improve our

research skills by encouraging better collaboration and ensuring active participation from all

members.
Rodulfo James Gacus: One of the biggest challenges was the lack of cooperation from some

group members, which led to an uneven workload. Additionally, coordinating schedules for meet

ups was difficult, causing delays in progress. I learned that conducting research requires strong

teamwork, time management, and effective communication. Gathering data and analyzing results

taught me the importance of being thorough and patient in ensuring the accuracy of information.

To enhance my research skills, I plan to develop better time management, improve collaboration

with team members, and explore more reliable research methods. I also aim to practice critical

thinking and data analysis to improve future research endeavors.

Alexa Lapiña: I faced hardships in focusing and properly comprehending what I'm reading from

the sources that we've studied. Research is a system that you need to follow in conducting an

experiment/activity for finding out new knowledge and ideas. I believe, I can improve by having

more focus and studying more about what and how research really is.

Khent Matteijo Lugo: A challenge I faced was coordinating with my groupmates due to our

different schedules, I learned that teamwork and time management are important in research, by

focusing more on analyzing information and studying more on our research topic
Jisha Virtudazo: I faced challenges in attending some of our group meetups due to conflicting

personal schedules and personal problems. This made it difficult for me to stay fully updated

with the group’s progress. Through this experience, I realized the importance of better time

management and staying more engaged in group discussions. I aim to improve my research skills

by managing my schedule more effectively and staying more connected with my team in future

projects.

Ashley Atap: During the research process, I struggled with balancing my schedule, making it

difficult to attend group meetups. The lack of cooperation from some members also delayed our

progress and added extra work for the more active members, and personal problems. This

experience taught me the value of teamwork and accountability in completing group tasks.

Moving forward, I will improve my research skills by practicing better collaboration and

ensuring all members contribute equally.

Jecel Topacio: Scheduling conflicts prevented me from attending many of the group meetings,

which limited my contribution to the project. This experience taught me that effective research

involves regular participation and teamwork to achieve better outcomes. I plan to improve by

staying more connected with the team, managing my time better, and taking a more proactive

role in future projects.

JM Ambos: Due to personal commitments, I was unable to actively participate in the group’s

meet-ups and discussions.

Dave Baguio: I encountered difficulties attending group meet-ups due to conflicting schedules,

which limited my overall involvement. This experience highlighted the importance of clear

communication and staying informed about project developments, even when unable to attend.

In future projects, I will prioritize attending discussions and maintaining better communication

with my team.

Lucero Janicha: Personal commitments prevented me from attending group meetings, which

affected my ability to collaborate fully. I’ve realized that consistent participation and

communication are key to successfully completing research. To improve, I will focus on better

time management and maintaining regular contact with my group in future research endeavors.

VII. References
Our Survey:
Our survey on why students struggle with math (details and results are discussed within the
research context).

Online Sources:
Read and Spell. (n.d.). Struggling with Math. Retrieved from
https://www.readandspell.com/struggling-with-math

Grade Power Learning. (n.d.). Why Students Struggle with Math. Retrieved from

https://gradepowerlearning.com/resources/math-tutoring/why-students-struggle-with-math/
Institute of Education Sciences. (n.d.). WWC Practice Guide: Elementary Math Summary.

Retrieved from https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/Docs/PracticeGuide/WWC-PraxGuide-Elementary-

Math-Summary-508c.pdf

STEMly Tutoring. (n.d.). Why Do Some Students Struggle With Math. Retrieved from

https://www.stemlytutoring.com/blog/why-do-some-students-struggle-with-math

Home Guru World. (n.d.). Top Reasons Why Students Struggle With Math. Retrieved from

https://homeguruworld.com/top-reasons-why-students-struggle-with-math/

Tutor Doctor. (2019). The Top 5 Reasons Students Struggle With Math. Retrieved from

https://www.tutordoctor.com/blog/2019/january/the-top-5-reasons-students-struggle-with-math/

Education Week. (2023). Why Word Problems Are Such a Struggle For Students And What

Teachers Can Do. Retrieved from https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/why-word-

problems-are-such-a-struggle-for-students-and-what-teachers-can-do/2023/05