The aim of this study was to examine if--and to what extent--a sensory modality's conceptual congruency influences learning in digital environments. Building on previous work in multimedia and embodied learning, the study used custom software to systematically vary the conceptual congruency of two sensory modalities (aural and bodily-kinesthetic).…

Investigating symmetric dot patterns provides opportunities for foundational mathematical learning that is not restricted to multiplication alone. Students have opportunities to learn about the properties of symmetry, about the generalization of patterns, about writing and interpreting equations--all areas of study in grades 3-5. And symmetric dot…

In three experiments, we used a masked prime in a verification task to investigate the processing stages occurring during multiplication fact retrieval. We aimed to investigate the retrieval process by overlapping its execution with the processing of a masked prime consisting of a number. Participants evaluated the correctness of multiplication…

Math fact fluency is foundational for later mathematics education. Unfortunately, many students across the nation continue to struggle with these core skills. Computer-assisted instruction may be a potentially valuable tool for improving math fact fluency due to its ability to differentiate instruction at the student level, provide added practice…

Computational fluency is an important aspect of math proficiency. Despite widely held beliefs about the differential difficulty of single-digit multiplication math facts, little empirical work has examined this issue. The current study analyzed the number of repetitions needed to master multiplication math facts. Data from 15,402 3rd, 4th, and 5th…

The Common Core State Standards Initiative stresses the importance of developing a geometric and algebraic understanding of complex numbers in their different forms (i.e., Cartesian, polar and exponential). Unfortunately, most high school textbooks do not offer such explanations much less exercises that encourage students to bridge geometric and…

In the September 2010 issue of "Mathematics Teaching," Tom O'Brien offered practical advice about how to teach addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division and contrasted his point of view with that of H.H. Wu. In this article, the author revisits Tom's examples, drawing on his methodology while, hopefully, simplifying it and giving it…

A multiple baseline design was used to evaluate the effects of a modified Detect, Practice, and Repair (DPR) procedure on multiplication-fact fluency with 10 low-achieving 5th-grade students. Experimenters modified the DPR procedure using Microsoft[C] PowerPoint[C] slide shows to conduct the assessments and allow for more rapid self-evaluation in…

This research demonstrates the design of a Joyful Classroom Learning System (JCLS) with flexible, mobile and joyful features. The theoretical foundations of this research include the experiential learning theory, constructivist learning theory and joyful learning. The developed JCLS consists of the robot learning companion (RLC), sensing input…

Arguing that mathematics is a form of communication that students need help in understanding, this article describes a set of seven simple interactive LogoWriter tools that can be used to help children explore the language of multiplication. Examples of the use of graphics in responding to children's commands are provided and several exercises are…

This study implemented a multiplication program based on systematic practice, aimed at improving children's recall of basic multiplication facts. Four Year 5 classes were recruited to participate in the study. Two classes practised multiplication facts using pencil and paper worksheets and another two classes practised on computers. Eleven…

Calculators can be used in primary schools in a number of situations. They are most beneficial when working with large numbers, dealing with real data that leads to complex calculations, performing repetitive calculations, developing concepts, estimating and checking, problem solving, and looking for patterns and/or relationships. But what if the…

Ways to combine the strengths of teacher and computer are suggested. Multiplication concepts and an algorithm for multiplication are taught in the same lessons. The computer is used as an electronic chalkboard to teach at a semiconcrete level. The computer program is included. (MNS)

Six male elementary school students with learning disabilities were taught multiplication facts using a computer software program with a five-second constant time delay procedure. Results indicated that the computer-assisted instructional program was effective. Learning generalized with varying degrees of success. (Author/JDD)

Described is an approach to computational matrix algebra that takes advantage of a high quality, low cost microcomputer software package. The examples and applications discussed focus on matrix multiplication. (Author/CW)