title: Computer-based training for improving mental calculation in third- and fifth-graders.
abstract: The literature on intervention programs to improve arithmetical abilities is fragmentary and few studies have examined training on the symbolic representation of numbers (i.e. Arabic digits). In the present research, three groups of 3rd- and 5th-grade schoolchildren were given training on mental additions: 76 were assigned to a computer-based strategic training (ST) group, 73 to a process-based training (PBT) group, and 71 to a passive control (PC) group. Before and after the training, the children were given a criterion task involving complex addition problems, a nearest transfer task on complex subtraction problems, two near transfer tasks on math fluency, and a far transfer task on numerical reasoning. Our results showed developmental differences: 3rd-graders benefited more from the ST, with transfer effects on subtraction problems and math fluency, while 5th-graders benefited more from the PBT, improving their response times in the criterion task. Developmental, clinical and educational implications of these findings are discussed.
authors: Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EB, United Kindom. Electronic address: sc2014@cam.ac.uk.
authors: Sara
authors: S
authors: Caviola
authors: Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy.
authors: Giulia
authors: G
authors: Gerotto
authors: Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy. Electronic address: irene.mammarella@unipd.it.
authors: Irene C
authors: IC
authors: Mammarella
mesh_terms: D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D003201:Computers; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning / Q000502:physiology*; D008297:Male; D008433:Mathematics; D008606:Mental Processes / Q000502:physiology; D011930:Reaction Time; D014163:Transfer, Psychology
keywords: Mathematics; Mental calculation; Training