Investigating the Effect of Peer Learning on Students' Achievement and Attitude in "Discrete Mathematics"
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Date
2026
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SDU University
Abstract
This research investigated how the Think–Pair–Share method combined with Structured Problem Solving (TPS–SPS) impacted students' academic performance and their attitudes about Discrete Mathematics. The study used a quasi-experimental pretest/posttest non-equivalent control group design with second- and third- year mathematics pedagogy students at a private university located in the Almaty region of Kazakhstan (N = 164 for achievement; N = 72 for attitude). The participants of the study attended the same lectures, yet their practice sessions differed because experimental groups completed TPS–SPS activities during a three-week Counting and Probability unit while control groups followed traditional individual-work instruction. Academic achievement was measured using a researcher-developed open-ended test (α = 0.809), and attitudes were assessed using an adapted Attitudes Toward Mathematics Inventory (α = 0.909). ANCOVA results showed a statistically significant effect for the 2nd-year cohort, with the experimental group producing higher adjusted post-test scores. The 3rd-year cohort did not show a statistically significant effect; however, both cohorts displayed similar improvement patterns, with experimental groups showing higher gains. No significant between-group differences were found in overall attitude for either cohort, yet the 2nd-year experimental group demonstrated a significant within-group improvement in self-confidence. The results suggest that TPS-SPS is an effective method for enhancing Discrete Mathematics achievement, while short-term interventions produce limited attitudinal change.
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Keywords
Think–Pair–Share, Structured Problem Solving, Discrete Mathematics
Citation
Orazkhan A / Investigating the Effect of Peer Learning on Students' Achievement and Attitude in "Discrete Mathematics" / SDU University / Department of Pedagogy of Natural Sciences