Graduate Student Research Symposium 2025

This study aims to examine how goal-setting strategies can impact the academic performance of elementary students, with a particular focus on multiplication and division skills. By using George T. Doran’s (1981) SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound), students were encouraged to set clear, actionable objectives to improve their math abilities. As they tracked their progress and reflected on their successes, students began to take more ownership of their learning, which in turn boosted their motivation and problem-solving skills. This research seeks to understand whether structured goal-setting helps students better grasp core math concepts and improve their overall academic performance. Beyond math, SMART goals also help students develop important life skills like perseverance, time management, and self-reflection. The findings from this study could offer valuable insights into how goal-setting can be used in elementary education to not only engage students but also support their long-term success in math and beyond.