Identifying and naming number digits in Setswana

Abstract

This study experimentally tested how well Setswana native speakers know numbers in their language, and whether they can articulate numbers of varying complexities in Setswana. To this end, we present results from a computerbased number transcoding task on how Setswana speakers identify and articulate number digits in Setswana. We measured participants’ (N = 104, 48 males and 55 females, 18–35 years old) response times and accuracy scores to four different types of stimuli: single, double, triple, and quadruple digits. Results confirm the study hypothesis that simple numbers are easier to identify and name in Setswana than more complex digits. Both reaction times and accuracy scores show that less complex numbers have shorter reaction times and high accuracy scores, while more complex quadruple numbers take longer to identify and name in Setswana, and attract low correctness scores. Results have various implications and reflect how numeracy skills are taught, and how Setswana speakers generally use numbers.