In the BEAM Research Lab, we investigate the nature, development, and consequences of affective factors in a math-specific context, specifically the underlying affective factors of beliefs, emotions, and attitudes.
We aim to identify the best ways to encourage advantageous affect and reduce maladaptive affect that can optimize mathematics learning and STEM career interests.
We study various components of the mathematics achievement and motivation process, including:
Affective factors: Math Intelligence mindset, math anxiety, math interest and confidence
Influences: Affect and behaviors of parents and teachers; messages in the environment; math-related social media posts and interactions
Outcomes: achievement, motivation, STEM career interests
Development: middle childhood, adolescence, young adulthood
Topics of Active Studies:
Understanding Beliefs about Math Intelligence in Adolescents
Effects of Generative AI on Math Learning
Characterizing Math Talk and Sentiment on Social Media
Reducing Negative Bias in How Individuals Interpret Mathematics Contexts
Past Studies:
Interview study to understand high school students’ beliefs about intelligence (Fall 2025-Spring 2026)
Study to understand more about fraction knowledge during later elementary and middle school (Fall 2024-Fall 2025)
Study on Children’s Achievement Attitudes and Beliefs (Summer 22-Spring 24)
Study on Achievement Attitudes and Beliefs in College Students (Spring 21-Fall 22)
For more information about our past or ongoing studies, please contact us at beamresearchlab@tamu.edu.