This paper discusses six aspects of current practice in mathematics instruction of elementary school children: (1) use of symbolization, (2) use of models, (3) consideration of child development, (4) "logical" vs. "natural" approaches, (5) individualization, and (6) diagnosis and prescription. The author argues that symbols are frequently…

If the principles of languages are applied to the learning of arithmetic, it appears that elementary grade pupils are being introduced to mathematical symbols at too early an age. (MP)

To assess the importance of visual attributes relative to acoustic and semantic attributes in children's encoding, a 64-item recognition test was administered to first- and sixth-grade children. Recognition items were linedrawings of simple objects accompanied by aural labels. By manipulating the picture, label, and referent in various…

An experiment investigated the effects of representational modes, presentation methods, and age on learning. Representation was in either iconic or symbolic verbal style, the verbal component was presented by either tape or booklet, and the pictorial component contrasted filmloops. Nine and eleven year old learners were exposed to a lesson on the…

Presents four educational experiments reflecting Jerome Bruner's theories on iconic and enactive representation to emphasize the need for more research on how children learn. Advocates greater institutional cooperation among schools, teachers, and researchers to improve research implementation and reduce problems of school disruption and…