RUME 26
2024
Omaha, Nebraska
The MAJORWISE Survey Study: Why Students Leave and Stay in the Mathematics Major
Page: 1480
To better understand retention and attrition in the mathematics major, our research team launched the Mathematics Journeys of Retention: Why Individuals Shift Educational Paths (MAJORWISE) project. During October 2023, we carried out a nationwide survey in the United States with free-response items of students who have been enrolled in a mathematics major during the years 2013-2023. In addition to demographic information, this survey solicited information such as reasons for enrolling in a mathematics major and timing of and reasons for deciding to either leave or stay in the mathematics major. We analyzed free-response survey items using a predetermined coding scheme framed by Self-Determination Theory (Ryan & Deci, 2000), with codes for autonomy, relatedness, and competency. The findings from this project will provide insight into how relevant stakeholders can best promote the motivation and retention of mathematics majors.