ERIC Number: EJ1070446
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 20
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1307-9298
EISSN: N/A
The Assessment of Math Learning Difficulties in a Primary Grade-4 Child with High Support Needs: Mixed Methods Approach
Mundia, Lawrence
International Electronic Journal of Elementary Education, v4 n2 p347-366 2012
This mixed-methods study incorporated elements of survey, case study and action research approaches in investigating an at-risk child. Using an in-take interview, a diagnostic test, an error analysis, and a think-aloud clinical interview, the study identified the child's major presenting difficulties. These included: inability to use the four arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) efficiently; not understanding the relationship between units, tens and hundreds; using any two of the four arithmetic processes (+, - , x, ÷) in combination within one operation; treating each column as a separate problem; place value problems / wrong alignment of numbers; poor eye-hand coordination leading to dysgraphia; and memory lapses. The other problems that became apparent through this investigation and implied in the findings include possible causal factors such as dyscalculia, dyslexia, low self-esteem, low self-efficacy, and math anxiety. Further assessment, intervention and research are recommended to address problems of this vulnerable child.
Descriptors: Mixed Methods Research, Case Studies, Surveys, Action Research, At Risk Students, Interviews, Diagnostic Tests, Protocol Analysis, Mathematics Skills, Error Patterns, Grade 4, Elementary School Students, Problem Solving, Learning Disabilities, Self Esteem, Self Efficacy, Mathematics Anxiety, Learning Problems, Performance Based Assessment, Observation, Student Records, Arithmetic, Word Problems (Mathematics), Memory
International Electronic Journal of Elementary Education. T&K Akademic Rosendalsvein 45, Oslo 1166, Norway. e-mail: iejee@iejee.com; Web site: http://www.iejee.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Grade 4; Intermediate Grades; Elementary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A