MATHEMATICS PHOBIA

One of the definitions of Mathematics phobia is “the panic, helplessness, paralysis and mental disorganization that arises among some people when they are required to solve Mathematical problem” (Tobias and Werssbord, 1980).

Many people have a deep-seated fear of mathematics and mathematics tutors see a lot of scared students in all levels of education. Mathematics anxiety is a serious and pervasive problem, it can happen to anyone. Mathematics phobia affects people’s life by making them; Lose confidence in themselves and in their academic abilities; Avoid courses involving mathematical calculation; Leave courses when they encounter mathematics elements; Shy away from helping their children with their home-work (assignment), etc.

There are many reasons why people develop fear of mathematics; these range from bad school experiences, to suddenly having to use mathematics for the first time in years. The following are some of the reasons why students have mathematics phobia: Strictness of mathematics tutor; Incompetence on the part of mathematics tutor; Absence of instructional materials during mathematics teaching; Laziness on the part of students and tutor; Learning mathematics in the late period; Absence of ICT facilities and mathematics laboratory; Absence of counselors in schools; Too wide mathematics curriculum; Students absenteeism from classroom and from school; Allocation of too many periods to the mathematics tutors etc.

WAYS TO ERASE MATHEMATICS PHOBIA

The following are the ways in students can overcome mathematics phobia:

v  You must learn stress management and relaxation techniques of studying mathematics

v  You must be friendly with and/or close to your mathematics tutor

v  You need to combat your negative thinking by positive thought (be optimistic)

v  Visualize yourself succeeding in mathematics

v  Solve the “easiest” problems first

v  Start preparing for TEST and EXAMINATIONS early

v  Try to understand the “why” of mathematics concept rather than cramming

v  Always try to ask questions from friends and tutors as regards your attempt failed problems

v  Solve exercises with friends

v  Make use of the recommended texts

v  Revise whatever you have been taught daily before learning a new topic

v  Be courageous to ask question in the class if you do not understand

v  Get a private tutor in case you are a slow learner, there may be enough time in the class to explain some concepts in details

v  Attempt all the assignments given to you by the tutor

If you can carry out all the above listed points, gradually you will overcome your phobia until it is completely erased.