Journal of Pedagogical Sociology and Psychology
Examining the effect of AI-based tutoring systems on students' mathematical problem-solving skills: The moderating role of mathematics anxiety
Clement K. Asiedu Menlah 1 * , Francis Ohene Boateng 2
More Detail
1 Wisconsin International University College, Ghana-Kumasi Campus, Ghana
2 Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED), Kumasi, Ghana
* Corresponding Author
Open Access Full Text (PDF)
ARTICLE INFO

Journal of Pedagogical Sociology and Psychology, 2025 - Volume 7 Issue 3, pp. 5-17
https://doi.org/10.33902/jpsp.202536137

Article Type: Research Article

Published Online: 13 Sep 2025

Views: 8 | Downloads: 3

ABSTRACT
This study used mathematics anxiety as a moderating variable to investigate how AI-based tutoring systems affected university students’ ability to solve mathematical problems. A cross-sectional survey design was used, and a standardized questionnaire was used to collect data from 338 students. Amos was used for Structural Equation Modeling analysis of the general data. Students’ ability to solve mathematical problems was directly and significantly impacted by AI-based tutoring systems, according to the findings. Additionally, students' ability to solve mathematical problems was adversely affected by mathematics anxiety. Lastly, the relationship between students’ ability to solve mathematical problems and AI-based tutoring systems was negatively moderated by mathematics anxiety. We advised teachers to implement strategies to reduce mathematics anxiety in the classroom. These include creating a loving technique for a loving environment, offering techniques for lowering anxiety, and encouraging a growth mentality.       
KEYWORDS
In-text citation: (Asiedu Menlah & Boateng, 2025)
Reference: Asiedu Menlah, C. K., & Boateng, F. O. (2025). Examining the effect of AI-based tutoring systems on students' mathematical problem-solving skills: The moderating role of mathematics anxiety. Journal of Pedagogical Sociology and Psychology, 7(3), 5-17. https://doi.org/10.33902/jpsp.202536137
In-text citation: (1), (2), (3), etc.
Reference: Asiedu Menlah CK, Boateng FO. Examining the effect of AI-based tutoring systems on students' mathematical problem-solving skills: The moderating role of mathematics anxiety. Journal of Pedagogical Sociology and Psychology. 2025;7(3), 5-17. https://doi.org/10.33902/jpsp.202536137
In-text citation: (1), (2), (3), etc.
Reference: Asiedu Menlah CK, Boateng FO. Examining the effect of AI-based tutoring systems on students' mathematical problem-solving skills: The moderating role of mathematics anxiety. Journal of Pedagogical Sociology and Psychology. 2025;7(3):5-17. https://doi.org/10.33902/jpsp.202536137
In-text citation: (Asiedu Menlah and Boateng, 2025)
Reference: Asiedu Menlah, Clement K., and Francis Ohene Boateng. "Examining the effect of AI-based tutoring systems on students' mathematical problem-solving skills: The moderating role of mathematics anxiety". Journal of Pedagogical Sociology and Psychology 2025 7 no. 3 (2025): 5-17. https://doi.org/10.33902/jpsp.202536137
In-text citation: (Asiedu Menlah and Boateng, 2025)
Reference: Asiedu Menlah, C. K., and Boateng, F. O. (2025). Examining the effect of AI-based tutoring systems on students' mathematical problem-solving skills: The moderating role of mathematics anxiety. Journal of Pedagogical Sociology and Psychology, 7(3), pp. 5-17. https://doi.org/10.33902/jpsp.202536137
In-text citation: (Asiedu Menlah and Boateng, 2025)
Reference: Asiedu Menlah, Clement K. et al. "Examining the effect of AI-based tutoring systems on students' mathematical problem-solving skills: The moderating role of mathematics anxiety". Journal of Pedagogical Sociology and Psychology, vol. 7, no. 3, 2025, pp. 5-17. https://doi.org/10.33902/jpsp.202536137
REFERENCES
  • Adler, J., & Davis, Z. (2006). Opening another black box: Researching mathematics for teaching in mathematics teacher education. Journal for Research in Mathematics Education, 37(4), 270–296.
  • Alvarez, J. I., Cortez, A. O., & Alberto, M. Z. (2024). Personalized learning in action: Utilizing AI-powered tutors to bridge the gap in mathematics. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 13(8), 15–25. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2024.24074
  • Amoako, T., Sheng, Z. H., Dogbe, C. S. K., & Pomegbe, W. W. K. (2022). Assessing the moderation role of ICT in the relationship between supply chain integration and SME performance. Journal of Industrial Integration and Management, 7(2), 203–233. https://doi.org/10.1142/S2424862221500160
  • Asare, B., & Boateng, F. O. (2025). Self-awareness and self-regulatory learning as mediators between ChatGPT usage and pre-service mathematics teacher's self-efficacy. Journal of Pedagogical Research, 9(2), 38-54. https://doi.org/10.33902/JPR.202530637
  • Asio, J. M. R., & Gadia, E. D. (2024). Predictors of student attitudes towards artificial intelligence: Implications and relevance to the higher education institutions. International Journal of Didactical Studies, 5(2), 27763. https://doi.org/10.33902/ijods.202427763
  • Banjade, S., Patel, H., & Pokhrel, S. (2024). Empowering education by developing and evaluating generative ai-powered tutoring system for enhanced student learning. Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Capsule Networks, 6(3), 278–298. https://doi.org/10.36548/jaicn.2024.3.003
  • Barroso, C., Ganley, C. M., McGraw, A. L., Geer, E. A., Hart, S. A., & Daucourt, M. C. (2021). A meta-analysis of the relation between math anxiety and math achievement. Psychological Bulletin, 147(2), 134–168. https://doi.org/10.1037/bul0000307
  • Caviola, S., Toffalini, E., Giofrè, D., Ruiz, J. M., Szűcs, D., & Mammarella, I. C. (2022). Math performance and academic anxiety forms, from sociodemographic to cognitive aspects: a meta-analysis on 906,311 participants. Educational Psychology Review, 34(1), 363-399. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-021-09618-5
  • Daker, R. J., Gattas, S. U., Sokolowski, H. M., Green, A. E., & Lyons, I. M. (2021). First-year students’ math anxiety predicts STEM avoidance and underperformance throughout university, independently of math ability. Npj Science of Learning, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41539-021-00095-7
  • Demedts, F., Reynvoet, B., Sasanguie, D., & Depaepe, F. (2022). Unraveling the role of math anxiety in students’ math performance. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.979113
  • Florentine, R. (2023). The relationship between academic anxiety, metacognition, and academic achievement [Unpublished master’s thesis]. University of Calgary.
  • Fornell, C., & Larcker, D. F. (1981). Evaluating structural equation models with unobservable variables and measurement error. Journal of Marketing Research, 18(1), 39. https://doi.org/10.2307/3151312
  • Guo, Y., Li, X., & Song, S. (2023). A study of college students’ openness personality and English learning anxiety. SHS Web of Conferences, 171, 01015. https://doi.org/10.1051/shsconf/202317101015
  • Halkiopoulos, C., & Gkintoni, E. (2024). Leveraging AI in e-learning: personalized learning and adaptive assessment through cognitive neuropsychology—a systematic analysis. Electronics, 13(18), 3762 https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13183762
  • Insorio, J. E. (2025). Math dance and song: Means to reduce student mathematical anxiety and promote engagement. International Journal of Didactical Studies, 6(3), Article 32161. https://doi.org/10.33902/ijods.202532161
  • Khasawneh, E., Gosling, C., & Williams, B. (2021). What impact does maths anxiety have on university students? A scoping review. BMC Psychology, 9, 37. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-021-00537-2
  • Khazanchi, R., Di Mitri, D., & Drachsler, H. (2024). The effect of ai-based systems on mathematics achievement in rural context: a quantitative study. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 41(1), e13098. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcal.13098
  • Krejcie, R. V., & Morgan, D. W. (1970). Determining sample size for research activities. Educational and Psychological Measurement, 30(3), 607–610. https://doi.org/10.1177/001316447003000308
  • Leddo, J., & Garg, K. (2021). Comparing the effectiveness of ai-powered educational software to human teachers . International Journal of Social Science and Economic Research, 6(3), 953–963. https://doi.org/10.46609/ijsser.2021.v06i03.015
  • Lin, C. C., Huang, A. Y. Q., & Lu, O. H. T. (2023). Artificial intelligence in intelligent tutoring systems toward sustainable education: a systematic review. Smart Learning Environments, 10, 41. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40561-023-00260-y
  • Liu, J., Sun, D., Sun, J., Wang, J., & Yu, P. L. H. (2025). Designing a generative AI enabled learning environment for mathematics word problem solving in primary schools: Learning performance, attitudes and interaction. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, 9, 100438. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.caeai.2025.100438
  • Lotey, E. K., Boateng, F. O., Arthur, Y. D., Adu-Obeng, B., & Gordon, J. F. (2025). Exploring GeoGebra acceptance: an implication for pre-service mathematics teachers’ professional development. Cogent Education, 12(1), 2514980. https://doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2025.2514980
  • Mounkoro, I., Rafique, T., Tapia, E. D. L. T., Cadelina, F. A., Uberas, A. D., Karkkulainen, E. A., Vallejo, R. G., & Galingana, C. D. (2024). Ai-powered tutoring systems : revolutionizing individualized support for learners. Library Progress International, 43(2), 344–355. https://doi.org/10.48165/bapas.2024.44.2.1
  • Ng, C. T., Chen, Y. H., Wu, C. J., & Chang, T. T. (2022). Evaluation of math anxiety and its remediation through a digital training program in mathematics for first and second graders. Brain and Behavior, 12(5), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1002/brb3.2557
  • Nilimaa, J. (2023). New examination approach for real-world creativity and problem-solving skills in mathematics. Trends in Higher Education, 2(3), 477–495. https://doi.org/10.3390/higheredu2030028
  • Opesemowo, O. A. G., & Ndlovu, M. (2024). Artificial intelligence in mathematics education: The good, the bad, and the ugly. Journal of Pedagogical Research, 8(3), 333–346. https://doi.org/10.33902/JPR.202426428
  • Podsakoff, P. M., & Organ, D. W. (1986). Self-reports in organizational research: problems and prospects. Journal of Management, 12(4), 531–544. https://doi.org/10.1177/014920638601200408
  • Son, T. (2024). Intelligent tutoring systems in mathematics education: a systematic literature review using the substitution, augmentation, modification, redefinition model. Computers, 13(10), 270. https://doi.org/10.3390/computers13100270
  • Stohlmann, M., & Yang, Y. (2024). Growth mindset in high school mathematics: A review of the literature since 2007. Journal of Pedagogical Research, 8(2), 357–370. https://doi.org/10.33902/JPR.202424437
  • Suvendu, R., & Deb, P. S. (2024). AI-driven flipped classroom: revolutionizing education through digital pedagogy. British Journal of Education, Learning and Development Psychology, 7(2), 169–179. https://doi.org/10.52589/bjeldp-ltdjflih
  • Ramo, J. P., & Carmen, M. (2025). Unraveling the link : math anxiety’s role in the relationship between math self-efficacy and math achievement. Diversitas Journal, 10(1), 259–273. https://doi.org/10.48017/dj.v10i1.2994
  • Rane, N. (2023). Enhancing mathematical capabilities through Chatgpt and similar generative artificial intelligence: roles and challenges in solving mathematical problems (Publicaiton no: 4603237). SSRN Electronic Journal. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4603237
  • Rizvi, M. (2023). Investigating ai-powered tutoring systems that adapt to individual student needs, providing personalized guidance and assessments. The Eurasia Proceedings of Educational and Social Sciences, 31, 67–73. https://doi.org/10.55549/epess.1381518
  • Scheibe, D. A., Was, C. A., Dunlosky, J., & Thompson, C. A. (2023). Metacognitive cues, working memory, and math anxiety: the regulated attention in mathematical problem solving (RAMPS) framework. Journal of Intelligence, 11(6), 117. https://doi.org/10.3390/jintelligence11060117
  • Simanjuntak, M. P., Hutahaean, J., Marpaung, N., & Ramadhani, D. (2021). Effectiveness of problem-based learning combined with computer simulation on students’ problem-solving and creative thinking skills. International Journal of Instruction, 14(3), 519–534. https://doi.org/10.29333/iji.2021.14330a
  • Soesanto, R. H., Dirgantoro, K. P. S., & Priyanti, N. (2022). Indonesian students’ perceptions towards AI-based learning in mathematics. Journal on Mathematics Education, 13(3), 531–548. https://doi.org/10.22342/jme.v13i3.pp531-548
  • Su, S. W., Hung, C. H., Chen, L. X., & Yuan, S. M. (2024). Development of an ai-based system to enhance school counseling models for asian elementary students with emotional disorders. IEEE Access, 12, 159121–159136. https://doi.org/10.1109/ACCESS.2024.3483456
  • Szczygieł, M. (2022). Not only reliability!: the importance of the ecological validity of the math anxiety questionnaire for adults. European Journal of Psychological Assessment, 38(2), 78–90. https://doi.org/10.1027/1015-5759/a000646
  • Trung, L. T. B. T., Thanh Trung, T., & Dung, T. M. (2025). ChatGPT in Vietnamese math classrooms: What are the influencing factors behind teachers’ adoption?. Journal of Pedagogical Research, 9(2), 72-88. https://doi.org/10.33902/JPR.202531924
  • Tsiani, M., Lefkos, I., & Fachantidis, N. (2025). Perceptions of generative AI in education: Insights from undergraduate and master’s-level future teachers. Journal of Pedagogical Research, 9(2), 89-108. https://doi.org/10.33902/JPR.202531943
  • Ukobizaba, F., Nizeyimana, G., & Mukuka, A. (2021). Assessment strategies for enhancing students’ mathematical problem-solving skills: a review of literature. Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, 17(3), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.29333/ejmste/9728
  • Wang, S., Christensen, C., Cui, W., Tong, R., Yarnall, L., Shear, L., & Feng, M. (2023). When adaptive learning is effective learning: comparison of an adaptive learning system to teacher-led instruction. Interactive Learning Environments, 31(2), 793–803. https://doi.org/10.1080/10494820.2020.1808794
  • Zakariya, Y. F. (2018). Development of mathematics anxiety scale: Factor analysis as a determinant of subcategories. Journal of Pedagogical Research, 2(2), 135-144.
  • Zhang, R., Chen, Z., & Deng, C. (2024). Gender differences in elementary school students’ fraction learning: roles of spatial ability and mathematical anxiety. Frontiers in Psychology, 15, 1464501. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1464501
  • Zhou, Y., Ye, X., & Liu, Y. (2022). The influence of personalized learning intervention system on student learning a study of junior middle school. Interactive Technology and Smart Education, 19(4), 441–459. https://doi.org/10.1108/ITSE-10-2021-0192
  • Živković, M., Pellizzoni, S., Mammarella, I. C., & Passolunghi, M. C. (2022). Executive functions, math anxiety and math performance in middle school students. British Journal of Developmental Psychology, 40(3), 438–452. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjdp.12412
  • Živković, M., Pellizzoni, S., Mammarella, I. C., & Passolunghi, M. C. (2023). The relationship betweens math anxiety and arithmetic reasoning: The mediating role of working memory and self-competence. Current Psychology, 42(17), 14506–14516. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-022-02765-0
  • Zuo, S., Huang, Q., & Qi, C. (2024). The relationship between cognitive activation and mathematics achievement: mediating roles of self-efficacy and mathematics anxiety. Current Psychology, 43, 30794-30805. https://link.springer.com/10.1007/s12144-024-06700-3
LICENSE
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.