Exploring Validity Evidence for Mathematics Self-Concept of Adolescents: Key Findings from PISA 2022.

This study examines the validity evidence of the mathematics self-concept construct in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022, focusing on concurrent, discriminant, and predictive validity among 4,552 U.S. adolescents. Mathematics self-concept, measured as students’ perception of mathematics being easier than other subjects, showed a positive association with mathematics motivation, supporting concurrent validity. It was found to be distinct from two measures of mathematics self-efficacy, indicating discriminant validity, and significantly predicted mathematics performance, providing predictive validity evidence. These findings suggest that mathematics self-concept is a unique and meaningful construct related to motivation and achievement, with implications for educational research and interventions aimed at improving student outcomes.