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ERIC Number: EJ1409881
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 21
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0022-0663
EISSN: EISSN-1939-2176
Early Prediction of Math Difficulties with the Use of a Neural Networks Model
Maria Psyridou; Tuire Koponen; Asko Tolvanen; Kaisa Aunola; Marja-Kristiina Lerkkanen; Anna-Maija Poikkeus; Minna Torppa
Journal of Educational Psychology, v116 n2 p212-232 2024
The early prediction of math difficulties (MD) is important as it facilitates timely support. MD are multifaceted, and several factors are involved in their manifestation. This makes the accurate early prediction of MD particularly challenging. In the present study, we aim to predict MD in Grade 6 with kindergarten-age (age 6) measures by applying a neural networks model. We use a set of 49 variables assessed during kindergarten from the domains of early arithmetic skills, cognitive skills, the home learning environment, parental measures, motivation, behavioral problems, and gender, which have been shown to have associations with mathematical development and/or MD. A two-step approach was used: First, we examined early whether the neural networks approach can provide a solution for the effective early identification of MD based on all 49 variables and, then, by using the most important predictors as identified by the initial model. The initial model achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.818, demonstrating excellent performance. The most important predictors of Grade 6 MD came from the domains of arithmetic and cognitive skills (arithmetic skills, rapid automatized naming, number concepts, spatial skills, counting) and behavioral problems (attention-orientation). The model with only the most important predictors achieved an AUC of 0.776, indicating good performance. Our results provided proof of concept for using neural networks in MD prediction in Grade 6 using information already available in kindergarten. In schools, these results could be used to identify children at potential risk of developing MD and to provide access to early support.
American Psychological Association. Journals Department, 750 First Street NE, Washington, DC 20002. Tel: 800-374-2721; Tel: 202-336-5510; Fax: 202-336-5502; e-mail: order@apa.org; Web site: http://www.apa.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education; Elementary Education; Kindergarten; Primary Education; Grade 6; Intermediate Grades; Middle Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Finland
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A