Manipulatives and number sentences in computer aided arithmetic word problem solving

Authors: Stellingwerf B.P.¹; Van Lieshout E.C.D.M.²

Source: Instructional Science, Volume 27, Number 6, November 1999 , pp. 459-476(18)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

In this study we investigated the relative contribution of two main components often used in the instruction of arithmetic word problem solving to first-grade children and children with learning problems, external representation with manipulatives and formal mathematical representation with number sentences. Four computer aided treatments were developed along these dimensions. Furthermore, an assessment control group was formed.

It was shown that performance improved significantly after treatment in comparison to the performance of the assessment control group. Comparison of the different training conditions showed that a number sentence treatment was the most effective training component. However, this effect was only present with the relatively high competent children and not with the relatively low performing children.

Keywords: arithmetic word problem; special education; solving and computer aided instruction

Language: English

Document Type: Regular paper

Affiliations: 1: Department of Special Education, University of Nijmegen, PO Box 9104, 6500 HD, Nijmegen, The Netherlands (author for correspondence) 2: Department of Special Education, University of Nijmegen, PO Box 9104, 6500 HD, Nijmegen, The Netherlands

Publication date: 1999-11-01