Abstract
Given the importance of mathematics to economic education, we administer a test of basic math skills to 696 students enrolled in various college economics courses in order to understand the factors influencing a student’s ability to apply basic math skills in practical settings. Students with strong elementary math skills perform significantly better in applied contexts and we find that taking more math classes in college improves a student’s ability to apply mathematics substantially. Interestingly, our results suggest that students with greater personal financial responsibility in funding their education do significantly better in understanding and applying basic math skills.
Recommended Citation
(2026)
"Math Skills and Everyday Problem Solving,"
Journal of Economics and Finance Education: Vol. 7:
Iss.
1, Article 4.
Available at:
https://scholarship.rollins.edu/jefe/vol7/iss1/4
