Effects of problem format on division and multiplication performance: division facts are mediated via multiplication-based representations.
In 2 experiments participants solved division problems presented in multiplication-based formats (e.g., 8 x _ = 72) more quickly than division problems presented in division-based formats (e.g., 72 / 8 = _). In contrast, participants solved multiplication problems presented in a division-based format (e.g., _ / 8 = 9) slowly and made many errors. In both experiments, the advantage for multiplication-based formats on division problems was found only for large problems (i.e., those with products or dividends greater than 25). These findings provide support for the view that large single-digit division facts are mediated via multiplication-based representations and that multiplication is the primary mode of representation for both division and multiplication facts.
Mauro
Daniel G
DG
Institute of Cognitive Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. dmauro@ccs.carleton.ca
LeFevre
Jo-Anne
JA
Morris
Jason
J
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001288:Attention; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008433:Mathematics; D008875:Middle Aged; D010364:Pattern Recognition, Visual; D011214:Practice, Psychological; D011340:Problem Solving; D011930:Reaction Time; D012153:Retention, Psychology; D012718:Set, Psychology; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology