Computing what makes a math person.

• Position: Education - Brief article

You either are a math person or you are not--at least that is what we always have heard. Now, research conducted by Zahar Hazari, professor in the College of Education at Florida International University, Miami, shows that really is not the case.

"Much of becoming a math person and pursuing a related STEM [science, technology, engineering, mathematics] career has to do with being recognized and becoming interested--not just being able to do it," maintains Flazari. 'This is important for promoting math education for everyone since it is not just about confidence and performance.

"It is surprising that students who become confident in their math abilities will not necessarily develop a math identity. We really have to engage students in more meaningful ways through their own interests and help them overcome challenges and recognize them for doing so. If we want to empower students and provide access to STEM careers, it can't just be about confidence and performance. Attitudes...