AN EXPLORATION OF GENDER DIFFERENCES IN TERTIARY MATHEMATICS

Data from 400 students in a tertiary mathematics course were analysed to explore gender differences on a number of variables associated with learning mathematics. It was conclud-ed that while differences did occur on variables associated with confidence, self-concept, test anxiety and quantitative ability indicating a detrimental effect for women, compensat-ing behaviour by women, including increased assignment work and tutorial attendance, re-sulted in comparable final course performance for women and men. These findings are dis-cussed in light of participation rates of women in mathematics