Oct 7 / Pearl Ubaru

STEM Confidence: How to Help Students Overcome “I’m Just Not a Math Person” Thinking

For many students, math and science can feel like locked doors they don’t have the keys to. The phrase “I’m just not a math person” echoes feelings of frustration and self-doubt. But this belief is not only misleading, it’s also limiting. It discourages effort, curbs curiosity, and creates unnecessary barriers in STEM learning.

Why “I’m Not a Math Person” Is a Myth

This kind of thinking stems from a fixed mindset, the belief that math ability is an inborn trait. Students internalize early struggles with math as proof that they lack a natural talent. However, research shows that a growth mindset, the idea that abilities can be developed, leads to greater success. When students believe they can improve, they tend to persevere longer and achieve more.

Shifting Praise from Talent to Effort

Parents and teachers can help by changing how they praise students. Rather than applauding intelligence, focus on effort and strategy. Phrases like “You worked hard on that” or “You found a smart way to approach the problem” reinforce that growth is possible. This helps students view challenges as part of learning, not signs of failure.

Using Real-World Role Models to Inspire

Representation matters. Introducing students to real-world scientists, engineers, and mathematicians, especially those who struggled at first, can shift their perception of who belongs in STEM. When students see that success doesn’t require perfection, they’re more willing to try, fail, and try again.

Making STEM Learning Hands-On and Relevant

Abstract equations and lectures can make STEM feel disconnected from reality. But when students work on real-world problems, like building a bridge model or coding a simple game, they engage with math and science in a way that feels meaningful. These projects help students see themselves as capable creators and thinkers.

Encouraging All Students to See Themselves in STEM

STEM confidence is not about turning every student into an engineer. It’s about making sure they don’t walk away thinking they’re not good enough to try. With encouragement, opportunity, and the right mindset, every student can grow in math and science, and maybe even enjoy the journey.