A meta-analytic examination of the effect of individual and school-average achievement on students' self-concept in science

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of individual and school average achievement on students' self-concept in science. The data of the last four Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) cycles were used, and a two -stage individual data meta -analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between achievement and self-concept in science. In the first stage, multilevel structural equation modeling was performed for each dataset. Furthermore, the effect sizes were synthesized via meta -analysis with a threelevel random -effect model. In addition, moderation analysis was conducted for the year, grade, and degree of stratification in countries. The results suggested a positive and significant effect of individual science achievement on the self-concept of students in science. On the other hand, the relation of the average school achievement was negative. The results were discussed by considering the big -fish -little -pond effect.