Early Mathematics Research Articles

An introduction to early grade mental mathematics and number sense

An introduction to early grade mental mathematics and number sense

The Impact of Implementing the Learning through Play Method on Fostering Interest, Participation, and Achievement among Preschoolers in Early Mathematics: The Topic of Money Value

The Impact of Implementing the Learning through Play Method on Fostering Interest, Participation, and Achievement among Preschoolers in Early Mathematics: The Topic of Money Value

Transactional development of science and mathematics knowledge and reading proficiency for multilingual students across languages of instruction.

This longitudinal study explored the reciprocal relations between students' domain-specific knowledge (science and mathematics) and reading proficiency from kindergarten to Grade 5. We compared these relational trajectories across both domains in the overall sample and examined the domain specificity of these relations within a multilingual subsample with varying language instruction backgrounds. Using latent curve modeling with structured residuals on a nationally representative data set, we identified two key patterns. In the overall sample, higher reading proficiency at kindergarten was associated with greater growth in science and mathematics knowledge, with a particularly pronounced effect in science. The predictive power of science knowledge on reading proficiency strengthened significantly from Grades 2 to 5, while reciprocal relations in mathematics intensified over time. For multilingual students, outcomes varied by the language of instruction. Those receiving English-only instruction showed early correlations between science and mathematics knowledge and reading proficiency; however, initial science and mathematics knowledge did not predict long-term growth in reading proficiency. Conversely, multilingual students who received instruction in their native language showed no immediate correlations at kindergarten. Nonetheless, their early science and mathematics knowledge significantly predicted later growth in reading proficiency. The findings underscore the critical role of native-language instruction in providing an accessible, vital cognitive and linguistic foundation that supports deeper domain knowledge building, highlighting the enduring benefits of native-language scaffolding. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Enhancing Mathematical Skills of Learners in the Early Childhood Phase Through Play-Based Learning: A Review of Literature

This theoretical article examines the crucial role of play-based learning (PBL) in enhancing the mathematical skills of children in the Early Childhood Phase, referred to as Foundation Phase (Grade R-3) learners, within a South African context. The article argues that the traditional approach to teaching early childhood mathematics, where teachers typically instruct while learners listen and repeat, is often rigid and lacks engagement. For learners to thrive in mathematics and truly comprehend the subject, they need to be actively involved in ‘doing’ mathematics. PBL is an approach to teaching and learning that uses various forms of play as a medium for learning. The objectives of the article are: a) to explore alternative methods for teaching mathematics to learners in the Early Childhood Phase, and b) to highlight the benefits and value of play as a mode for teaching and learning mathematics. As a theoretical paper, it does not include a methodology section; rather, relevant literature was analysed to support and justify the claims and to address the research questions. The study found that PBL can enhance the development of the vestibular system, which can positively impact learners’ cognitive abilities, including mathematical skills. The study is significant for both learners and teachers in the Early Childhood Phase, as it provides an opportunity for teachers to utilise alternative, play-related, and enjoyable methods to teach mathematics. The paper concludes that a child-centred, play-based curriculum encourages and promotes learning in a playful setting through discovery, investigation, problem-solving, imaginative thinking, and creative thinking.

Systematic review of learning trajectories in early mathematics

Systematic review of learning trajectories in early mathematics

Parents' use of sustained shared thinking during joint mathematics activities with young children: Aninvestigation of its measurement, antecedents, and outcomes.

There is currently a dearth of tools to assess parents' use of effective interactive strategies for supporting early mathematics learning. One potential such strategy is sustained shared thinking. This study therefore constructed and validated a scale for measuring parents' use of sustained shared thinking during joint mathematics activities with young children, and examined its antecedents and outcomes. Four hundred and sixty-six parents completed a questionnaire about their conceptions of mathematics teaching and learning, home practices, as well as their kindergarten children's approach and avoidance motivation to learn mathematics. Additionally, the children were tested on numeration skills. Results showed that our new scale has three factors: exchanging ideas with children about mathematical problem-solving processes, creating a child-centred atmosphere for mathematics learning, and engaging children in mathematical thinking. Parents' uses of these three strategies were predicted by their constructivist conception of mathematics teaching and learning, and were differentially associated with the children's numeration skills, approach, and avoidance motivation to learn mathematics. Potential uses of our new scale in future home mathematics environment research are discussed.

Beliefs in Online Professional Learning in Early Mathematics Teaching and Their Effects on Course Engagement

This study focused on the effects of an early math online professional learning course offered to preschool teachers. The course was designed to inform participants' knowledge of developmental progressions and promote daily mathematics instruction that encouraged students to view their world through a mathematical lens. A survey of preschool teachers' beliefs was administered to participants of the course to determine if participants' beliefs changed significantly and how their pre-course beliefs influenced their engagement in the course. Findings indicate that the course impacted preschool teachers regardless of their area of responsibility, education level, or experience level. The teachers' comfort with teaching math to young children and perspectives about age appropriateness of mathematics were both positively influenced by the course. The teachers with the most positive initial beliefs had a higher rate of course completion. Implications for the field of preschool teacher education and online professional learning environments are discussed.

Enhancing mathematical problem-solving ability through project-based learning: A study of vocational high school student

This study aims to improve the mathematical problem-solving ability of students at Vocational High School (VHS) through implementing Project Based Learning (PjBL). The research method used was a quasi-experiment with a matching-only pretest-posttest control group design, with a sample of 64 students divided into two classes, namely experimental and control classes, each consisting of 32 students. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling, where the sample was selected based on specific criteria relevant to the research objectives. Data were collected using tests of mathematical problem-solving ability administered before (pre-test) and after (post-test) the treatment. Data were analyzed using an independent sample t-test and a two-way ANOVA test with univariate general linear model (GLM) analysis. The results showed a difference between the experimental and control groups before the treatment. However, after the treatment, the experimental group had higher mathematical problem-solving ability than the control group, including the improvement and interaction between PjBL implementation and the Early Mathematics Skills (EMS) category.

Do home mathematical activities relate to early mathematical skills? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Children's foundational mathematical skills are critical for future academic attainment. While home mathematical activities (HMAs) have been proposed to support these skills, the extent to which engaging in them supports mathematical skills remains unclear. This preregistered systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis identified 351 effect sizes from 72 samples in 20 countries, exploring the relation between frequency of HMAs and mathematical skills in children aged 7 years and under (Mage = 61 months). A small significant positive relation was found (r = .13), moderated by risk of bias, with larger effects associated with a higher risk of bias. Specific ways the field can move forward are discussed to better understand the role of the home mathematical environment in early mathematics.

A minor masterpiece? Reconsidering De ponderibus et mensuris by Juan de Mariana

AbstractThe article investigates a little‐known work titled De ponderibus et mensuris [On Weights and Measures] written by Juan de Mariana in 1599. It contains the embryo of his future monetary theories, and has other interesting aspects, not only juridical and historical but also epistemological. Significant points of convergence with the early modern mathematics and abacus tradition make it unique. Apart from its stylistic, pedagogical and technical originality, this work also appears as a watershed for the evolution of economic science, its language and methodology.

Best of Both Worlds: Developing an Innovative, Integrated, Intelligent, and Interactive System of Technologies Supporting In-Person and Digital Experiences for Early Mathematics

Mathematics is a core component of cognition. Unfortunately, most young children and teachers cannot access research-based early childhood mathematics resources. Building on a quarter-century of research, we are developing and evaluating an innovative, integrated, intelligent, and interactive system of technologies based on empirically validated learning trajectories that provide the best personal and digital tools for assessing and supporting children’s mathematics learning. This article reviews the research that guided us, then describes the design principles of the new project, justifying their selection using theory and research, and shares how the design principles helped address challenges in development. The goal is to provide teachers, caregivers, and children with high-quality resources to support early mathematics learning in the context of meaningful, motivating, challenging, and achievable experiences.

The Views of Teachers with Project Experience on Early Mathematics

The Views of Teachers with Project Experience on Early Mathematics

하브루타 토론 활동이 예비유아교사의 수학 교수 효능감과 수학적 태도에 미치는 영향

Objectives This study was conducted to analyze the effects 0f Havruta discussion activities on pre-service early childhood teacher's mathematics teaching efficacy and mathematical attitude. Methods The study was conducted by selecting 13 and 15 students from early childhood education and 3rd graders, respectively, as an experimental group and a comparative group. And mathematics teaching efficacy and mathematical attitude tests were conducted on the study's students through pre and post tests. Results According to the results of this study, First, the experimental group, which was a group of pre-child teachers who conducted Havruta discussion activities, showed significantly higher mathematics teaching efficacy than the comparative group. There was also a statistically significant difference between the results expectation of mathematics teaching and the belief in mathematics teaching ability, a sub-factor of mathematics teaching efficacy. Second, the mathematical attitude of the pre-child teacher group who conducted the Havruta discussion activity was significantly higher than that of the pre-child teacher group who did not. Among the sub-factors of mathematical attitude, the experimental group's score was significantly higher than that of the comparative group in the case of interest in mathematics, motivation for mathematics, and self-concept in mathematics, and the experimental group scored significantly lower than the comparative group in the case of anxiety about mathematics. On the other hand, there was no significant difference in the value of mathematics. Conclusions In summary, the results of this study show that Havruto discussion activities significantly enhance the mathematics teaching efficacy and mathematical attitude of pre-child teachers. These findings demonstrate the value of actively utilizing Havruta discussion activities to enhance the mathematics teaching efficacy and mathematical attitude of pre-child teachers.

Using Evidence from Task-Based Interviews for Development and Validation of Classroom Assessments: Approaches and Applications in Early Grades Mathematics

ABSTRACT This article illustrates and differentiates the unique role cognitive interviews and think-aloud interviews play in developing and validating assessments. Specifically, we describe the use of (a) cognitive interviews to gather empirical evidence to support claims about the intended construct being measured and (b) think-aloud interviews to gather evidence about the problem-solving processes students use while completing tasks assessing the intended construct. We illustrate their use in the context of a classroom assessment of an early mathematics construct – numeric relational reasoning – for kindergarten through Grade 2 students. This assessment is intended to provide teachers with data to guide their instructional decisions. We conducted 64 cognitive interviews with 32 students to collect evidence about students’ understanding of the construct. We conducted 106 think-aloud interviews with 14 students to understand how the prototypical items elicited the intended construct. The task-based interview results iteratively informed assessment development and contributed important sources of validity evidence.

A Research Introduction for Early College Students: Based on the OSU–HBCU Pilot Project

We joined an initiative to engage faculty and undergraduate students in research by scheduling regular early college-level mathematics research presentations with pre- and post-lecture exercises. While our program featured six talks that were predominantly in the mathematical biosciences, the concept of creating themed topics for presentations can be extended to other areas of mathematical research, and the length of the program can also be scaled. This article discusses three of the presentations, including QR codes to access their recordings. The purpose of this article is to present the materials of the talks from this initiative and how faculty members can use the materials for potential explorations with students. The hope is the audience may use these, as presented, for study with students, with minimal start-up investment and to use this as a model for future undergraduate research efforts.

Parents' Involvement in Play Activities for Early Childhood Mathematics

Parents' Involvement in Play Activities for Early Childhood Mathematics

Selection and analysis of videos in the initial training of early childhood mathematics education teachers: the R4 Rubric

Selection and analysis of videos in the initial training of early childhood mathematics education teachers: the R4 Rubric

Remote assessment of the association between early executive function and mathematics skills

AbstractExecutive function (EF) skills are consistently associated with global mathematics assessments. However, less is known about which specific mathematics skills invoke EF in early childhood. We adapted batteries of EF, numerical, and patterning tasks to be conducted via synchronous video conferencing with typically developing 4‐year‐old children (N = 115, 56.6% female, 85.2% White, non‐Hispanic, 7.8% Multiracial, 0.9% Hispanic, 0.9% Black, 1.7% American Indian/Alaska Native, 2.6% Asian and 0.9% missing) from primarily upper middle class households (maternal education range: some college to graduate or professional degree, mode = graduate or professional degree) in the United States. We found feasibility of remote adaptation varied greatly by task. Just over half of enrolled children (57.02%) completed all tasks and there were higher rates of missingness compared to an in‐person sample with a similar age range collected in schools. Nonetheless, working memory predicted various mathematics skills, including patterning, verbal counting, and number comparison, controlling for age and maternal education. Relations between cognitive flexibility and patterning varied across model specifications. Overall, these findings provide insight into the costs and benefits of remotely administered direct assessments of EF and mathematics in early childhood and add to the growing body of literature suggesting working memory plays an important role in several foundational early mathematics skills. Suggestions are offered for remote assessment with preschoolers.Highlights Executive function and mathematics tasks were adapted for remote use and associations among skill sets were examined. Remotely administered data collection sessions had higher rates of missingness than comparable in‐person studies. Findings replicate and extend prior work on the associations between working memory and patterning, verbal counting, and number comparison in a remote setting.

Kindergarten teachers’ perception of early childhood mathematics education in a play-based curriculum: focused on concept mapping

Kindergarten teachers’ perception of early childhood mathematics education in a play-based curriculum: focused on concept mapping

Hubungan Pengetahuan, Minat dan Sikap Mengajar dengan Kesediaan Mengajar Matematik Awal Berasaskan Pendekatan STEM dalam Kalangan Guru Prasekolah

Teachers are the main agent to ensure the integration of STEM approach in Early Mathematics education at the preschool level is successfully implemented. This study determines the extent to which the preschool teachers are ready to teach Early Mathematics based on STEM approach. This study also aims to determine the relationships of knowledge, interest and teaching attitude with teaching readiness among preschool teachers. The research used a descriptive and quantitative design that involved 253 preschool teachers selected using stratified random sampling from five districts in Sabah, namely, Sandakan, Telupid, Ranau, Tuaran and Penampang. Data obtained from questionnaires were analyzed with IBM SPSS version 26.0 using Pearson Correlation. Findings of the study showed that the preschool teachers perceived teaching knowledge and readiness highly but teaching interest and attitude were perceived moderately. The relationships of knowledge, interest and teaching attitude with teaching readiness were positive and significant but the strength of correlation differs whereby knowledge correlated highly with teaching readiness but interest and attitude correlated poorly with teaching readiness for Early Mathematics based on STEM approach. These findings encourage more efforts to improve teaching interest and attitude through intervention such as provision of extrinsic compensation, implementation of continuous teacher professionalism development program that focuses on digital media and sophisticated technology usage as well as creation of conducive school culture. These strategic efforts are hoped to enhance knowledge, interest and attitudes of the preschool teachers and carry out their responsibilities in realizing STEM education to teaching Early Mathematics.