International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE)
Vol 15, No 5: October 2026

Mathematics anxiety and self-efficacy in pre-service teachers: implications for intervention

Ysmael V. Caballas (Philippine Normal University South Luzon)
Reynald M. Cacho (Philippine Normal University South Luzon)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Oct 2026

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between mathematics anxiety and self-efficacy among pre-service teachers at a Philippine college of education and generated evidence to inform institutional intervention design. Addressing the limited mixed-methods evidence in the local teacher education context, the study used a convergent parallel mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were collected from 131 first- and second-year pre-service teachers using validated measures of mathematics anxiety and self-efficacy, while qualitative data were gathered through an open-ended prompt on students’ mathematics learning experiences. Findings showed moderate to high mathematics anxiety, particularly in test and individual performance situations, alongside generally high self-efficacy in collaborative and familiar contexts. Pearson’s correlation revealed a significant moderate negative relationship between mathematics anxiety and self-efficacy (r=-0.349, p=0.001). Through joint interpretation of the quantitative and qualitative findings, the study showed that supportive relationships, enjoyment of mathematics, real-life relevance, passion for the subject, and strong foundations supported self-efficacy, whereas fear of failure, perceived difficulty, skill gaps, and negative past experiences heightened anxiety. The study contributes context-sensitive evidence on the integration of affective factors in Philippine teacher education and informed the development of the empowering anxiety support and yearnings in mathematics (EASY-MATH) program, a proposed intervention grounded in the identified emotional, academic, and social support needs of pre-service teachers.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJERE

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

The International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE) is an interdisciplinary publication of original research and writing on education which publishes papers to international audiences of educational researchers. The IJERE aims to provide a forum for scholarly understanding of ...