Algorithmic solution of arithmetic problems and operands-answer associations in long-term memory.
Many developmental models of arithmetic problem solving assume that any algorithmic solution of a given problem results in an association of the two operands and the answer in memory (Logan & Klapp, 1991; Siegler, 1996). In this experiment, adults had to perform either an operation or a comparison on the same pairs of two-digit numbers and then a recognition task. It is shown that unlike comparisons, the algorithmic solution of operations impairs the recognition of operands in adults. Thus, the postulate of a necessary and automatic storage of operands-answer associations in memory when young children solve additions by algorithmic strategies needs to be qualified.
Thevenot
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Université de Bourgogne, LEAD-CNRS, Faculté des Sciences Gabriel, 6 Bld Gabriel, 21000 Dijon, France.
Barrouillet
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Fayol
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D000465:Algorithms; D006801:Humans; D008433:Mathematics; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology*; D011340:Problem Solving; D011930:Reaction Time; D021641:Recognition, Psychology