Effects of computer-based graphic organizers to solve one-step word problems for middle school students with mild intellectual disability: A preliminary study.
The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of computer-based graphic organizers, using Kidspiration 3© software, to solve one-step word problems. Participants included three students with mild intellectual disability enrolled in a functional academic skills curriculum in a self-contained classroom. A multiple probe single-subject research design (Horner & Baer, 1978) was used to evaluate the effectiveness of computer-based graphic organizers to solving mathematical one-step word problems. During the baseline phase, the students completed a teacher-generated worksheet that consisted of nine functional word problems in a traditional format using a pencil, paper, and a calculator. In the intervention and maintenance phases, the students were instructed to complete the word problems using a computer-based graphic organizer. Results indicated that all three of the students improved in their ability to solve the one-step word problems using computer-based graphic organizers compared to traditional instructional practices. Limitations of the study and recommendations for future research directions are discussed.
West Jackson Middle School, Jefferson, GA, United States.
Kelli A
KA
Sheriff
The University of Texas at San Antonio, United States. Electronic address: richard.boon@utsa.edu.
Richard T
RT
Boon
D000293:Adolescent; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004495:Education of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008297:Male; D008433:Mathematics / Q000193:education*; D008838:Microcomputers; D015588:Observer Variation; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011340:Problem Solving; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012984:Software
Computer-based graphic organizers; Kidspiration 3© software; Mathematics; Middle school; Mild intellectual disability; Problem-solving; Word problems