This study compares the existence and direction of attitude towards Mathematics shown by four sample groups composed of students enrolled at Mathematics teachers' College in two moments of their training courses, and Mathematics teachers in two moments of their professional life. Data were obtained from volunteer participants (N = 440), by means of an attitude scale, an autobiographical text, a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. The statistical analysis show differences in attitude measurements concerning Mathematics among the sample groups, with a significant presence of favorable attitude in students at the beginning of College when compared to attitudes of practicing teachers. These differences were corroborated by the characteristic traits of attitude types, identified by a qualitative analysis. The attitude change toward Mathematics can be explained by the peculiarities of the different circumstances on the students' and the teachers' lives. Recommendations for teaching training in Mathematics are pointed out.
attitude; mathematics; graduation; teaching
