An information distortion model of social class differences in math self-concept, intrinsic value, and utility value.

Abstract

In this paper we develop an information distortion model (IDM) of social class differences in self-beliefs and values. The IDM combines psychological biases on frame-of-reference effects with sociological foci on ability stratification. This combination is hypothesized to lead to working class children having more positive math self-beliefs and values than equally able salariat children. We further suggest that the same conditions that give rise to the working class benefit in self-beliefs and values are associated with signaling effects, which suppress educational aspirations and attainment. These hypotheses are tested in one cross-sectional multi-national and one longitudinal study. The results in favor of the IDM challenge cultural models of social class differences and have implications for rational action theory. Educational Impact And Implications StatementWorking class children have higher academic self-concept and task value than equally able, more advantaged, peers in school systems that are stratified by academic ability. However, our cross-national and longitudinal research shows that this advantage does not appear to translate into higher aspirations or attainment. We suggests that the very educational structures that give rise to self-concept and task value advantage for poorer children simultaneously restrict the possibility of their using this advantage to their benefit in terms of educational attainment.

Effects of peer tutoring on middle school students’ mathematics self-concepts

“…This fact, also, is consistent with prior studies, including the works of Susperreguy, Davis-Kean, Duckworth and Chen (2018) [17] and Weidinger, Steinmayr and Spinath (2019) [98]. According to several authors, differences in self-concept may be found across educational levels, that is, between primary, secondary, and postsecondary education, but are more difficult to find within the same educational level [14,15].…”

“…Marsh et al (2019) [14] defined self-concept as individuals' self-perceptions formed through their own experiences and interpretations of their environment. According to Parker, Marsh, Guo, Anders, Shure, and Dicke (2018) [15], an alternative definition is the sum total of individuals' mental and physical characteristics and their own evaluation of them. Hence, self-concept is believed to have a complex structure with different factors comprising it.…”

Inequity and Excellence in Academic Performance: Evidence From 27 Countries

“…When considered from a within-country perspective, traditional dividing lines between educational systems evaporated. Nordic countries have often been shown to be among the most equal in between-country studies (e.g., Parker et al, 2016Parker et al, , 2017. When considering within-country estimates however, Iceland and Sweden had some of the most evident declines in achievement and increases in inequality of all countries considered.…”

“…Widespread and systematic inefficiencies in child assignment could account for the results noted here (see Pfeffer, 2015). Indeed, PISA data suggest that misplacement occurs across the socioeconomic ladder (Parker et al, 2017). For example, Maaz, Trautwein, Lüdtke, and Baumert (2008) note that in the Germanic system, parents from well-off families often ensure that their children are located in university track systems even when teacher recommendations are for lower track placements.…”

“…For example, Maaz, Trautwein, Lüdtke, and Baumert (2008) note that in the Germanic system, parents from well-off families often ensure that their children are located in university track systems even when teacher recommendations are for lower track placements. Further, Parker et al (2017) show that children of richer parents pay for poor placement with decreased academic self-concept. Conversely, children of poorer parents would likely gain in self-concept by inaccurate school placement but pay in terms of more difficult pathways to university.…”