Comparison Between Performance Levels for Mathematical Competence: Results for the Sex Variable

Area of Science:

• Educational Psychology
• Mathematics Education

Background:

• Schools aim for holistic education, including mathematical ability development.
• Individualization is key for students with high aptitudes.
• Identifying and supporting mathematically gifted students presents challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the mathematical abilities of 5th-year primary students.
• To identify performance levels and analyze differences based on sex.
• To highlight challenges in diagnosing students with higher mathematical capacities.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an ex post facto, descriptive, and quantitative research methodology.
• Administered the online Evaluation Battery for Mathematical Ability (BECOMA On).
• Sample comprised 3795 students from 147 Spanish schools across 16 regions.

Main Results:

• Identified three distinct levels of mathematical performance, with level 3 being the highest.
• Found statistically significant differences in the highest performance level between sexes.
• Observed a diagnostic gap in identifying students with higher mathematical abilities.

Conclusions:

• The current educational system faces challenges in accurately identifying students with high mathematical potential.
• Addressing this diagnostic gap is crucial for ensuring the educational inclusion of all students.
• Further research is needed to improve identification and support strategies for gifted students.