9-year old pupils’ self-related affect regarding mathematics: a comparison between Finland and Chile

In the field of mathematics-related affect research, not many comparisons have been done with regard to Western-Latin countries. This article reports the state of 9-year old pupils’ self-related affect with respect to mathematics in two countries, i.e. Finland and Chile. Self-efficacy, mastery goal orientation, effort, and enjoyment of mathematics were under consideration. Through quantitative analysis, it was found that all the factors examined are highly positive in both countries. However, a small difference with regard to beliefs of self-efficacy and effort was found between the countries, in favour to Finland. Yet, young pupils’ self-related mathematical beliefs build up an optimistic view with respect to mathematics learning, and efforts should be made to maintain the situation similar during the following school years.