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Algorithmic solution of arithmetic problems and operands-answer associations in long-term memory
C Thevenot1, P Barrouillet, M Fayol
1Université de Bourgogne, LEAD-CNRS, Faculté des Sciences Gabriel, 6 Bld Gabriel, 21000 Dijon, France.
Summary
Solving arithmetic problems may not automatically store number facts in memory. Performing operations, unlike comparisons, actually hindered operand recognition in adults, challenging existing developmental models.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Developmental models of arithmetic problem solving often assume automatic memory storage of operands and answers after algorithmic solutions.
- This assumption is based on theories suggesting that repeated problem-solving strengthens these memory associations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether the algorithmic solution of arithmetic problems necessarily leads to the storage of operand-answer associations in memory.
- To examine the impact of performing operations versus comparisons on number pairs on subsequent memory recognition.
Main Methods:
- Adult participants performed either an arithmetic operation or a numerical comparison on pairs of two-digit numbers.
- Following the primary task, participants completed a recognition task to assess their memory for the operands.
Main Results:
- Performing arithmetic operations on number pairs impaired the recognition of those operands.
- In contrast, performing numerical comparisons did not impair operand recognition.
Conclusions:
- The findings challenge the assumption that algorithmic arithmetic problem solving automatically and necessarily stores operand-answer associations in memory.
- Existing developmental models may need qualification regarding the automaticity of memory encoding during early arithmetic learning.