Evaluation of a Computer-Based Training Program for Enhancing Arithmetic Skills and Spatial Number Representation in...

Area of Science:

• Educational Psychology
• Cognitive Science
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Basic numerical skills and spatial number representation are foundational for mathematical learning.
• Computer-based training programs offer adaptive learning opportunities for children.
• Previous interventions have shown varying success in improving arithmetic performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the Calcularis computer-based training program.
• To assess Calcularis's impact on basic numerical skills and spatial number representation.
• To compare Calcularis with a waiting control group and an alternative spelling training group.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 138 children from second to fifth grade.
• Three conditions: Calcularis training, waiting control, and spelling training.
• A minimum of 24 sessions (20 min each) over 6-8 weeks.

Main Results:

• The Calcularis group showed significantly higher benefits in subtraction compared to both control groups.
• Children using Calcularis demonstrated improved number line estimation with medium to large effect sizes.
• The program's adaptive user model facilitated personalized learning.

Conclusions:

• Calcularis is an effective tool for supporting children's arithmetic performance.
• The program enhances spatial number representation, crucial for mathematical understanding.
• Adaptive computer-based training can positively impact foundational math skills.