ERIC Number: EJ1386575
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 7
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1098-6065
EISSN: EISSN-1532-7833
Spatial Training Using Game Play in Preschoolers Improves Computational Skills
Newman, Sharlene D.; Loughery, Erin; Ecklund, Ambur; Smothers, Marriah; Ongeri, Jefney
Mathematical Thinking and Learning: An International Journal, v25 n2 p252-258 2023
Previous studies have found that block play results in better spatial ability which may lead to greater mathematical skills. The current study examined a specific type of block play, structured block play in which a copy of a block configuration is constructed. Structured block play is a difficult cognitive task that requires an understanding of spatial relations, hand-eye coordination, and spatial working memory among others. This preliminary study was designed to determine whether training using structured block play would lead to improvements in skills linked to mathematical thinking. Two groups of children participated in the study. One group played a competitive structured block building game once a week for 8 weeks. A control group was also tested. All participants completed a kindergarten readiness assessment before and after the 8-week period. Children in the block play group showed significant improvements in the computation module of the assessment, showing improvements in the "makes a set of objects smaller or larger" skills. No such effect was observed for the control group. The results presented demonstrate that young children can, with assistance, engage in structured block play and that they have cognitive benefits from such block building activities.
Descriptors: Spatial Ability, Preschool Children, Computation, Mathematics Skills, Toys, Perceptual Motor Coordination, Short Term Memory, Game Based Learning, Kindergarten, Low Income Students, Social Services, Federal Programs
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education; Elementary Education; Kindergarten; Primary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Laws, Policies, & Programs: Head Start
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A