Game-based training to promote arithmetic fluency

JAY, Tim, HABGOOD, Jacob, MEES, Martyn and HOWARD-JONES, Paul (2019). Game-based training to promote arithmetic fluency. Frontiers in Education, 4, p. 118.

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Abstract

The research team designed and evaluated a mobile game to promote rapid retrieval of arithmetic facts among a group of children aged 7–8 years (n = 97). The design of the game was based on principles drawn from research literature in mathematical cognition, game-based learning, and game design. The game trains basic number knowledge within a motivating context. It tested an implication of theory of automatization of arithmetic facts that training of recognition of multiples of single-digit numbers should lead to greater fluency in solving multiplication and division problems. A quasi-experimental design was employed to test whether the game improves retrieval of arithmetic facts. Children played the game in their classrooms for 20 min a day for 2 weeks. Comparisons between pre- and post-tests showed that the game playing group outperformed controls with a medium to large effect size (>0.6). These results suggest an improvement in arithmetic fluency equivalent to around 7 months' progress and provide rare empirical evidence supporting transfer of game-based training to a pencil-and-paper test. The findings are consistent with a connectionist theory of arithmetic skill, by showing that improved recognition of multiples contributes to multiplication and division skill. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2019.00118
Page Range:	p. 118
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Elements
Depositing User:	Symplectic Elements
Date Deposited:	29 Oct 2019 12:12
Last Modified:	18 Mar 2021 03:20
URI:	https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/25318

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