Using Technology to Motivate Students to Master Basic Math Facts

By Mary Kate McNulty July 2011

How can technology be used to motivate students to master basic math fact fluency?
What types of technology are most effective for students learning basic math facts? Is there a particular subgroup of students who is more likely to grasp basic math facts when using technology than other subgroups? How are students engaged when using technology to learn basic math facts? What is the main motivation for students to learn basic math facts?

What are Basic Math Facts?

Why are Math Facts Important?

Research has found that developing basic math fact fluency enhances students ability to learn, develop and/or apply advanced math skills and concepts. Fluency is responding both accurately and quickly to a selected stimulus Spending too much time solving basic facts affects the cognitive understanding of a problem, thus fluency aids in problem solving and critical thinking.
Axtel, et .al., 2010

Benefits of Becoming Fluent

Tasks can be preformed faster and with more accuracy. Students can work for longer and more continuous periods of time without distractions. Students can then apply newly mastered skill to other concepts and when problem-solving. Less anxiety when completing math problems
Greer &, Singer-Dudek, 2005; Adcock, et al., 2010

How do students become fluent in basic math facts?

Understand basic math concepts. Make connections to previously mastered skills and concepts. Use strategies to initially learn basic facts
Counting strategies - manipulatives and hands-on activities Retrieval strategies - internalizing and memorizing math facts

Practice frequently, for short periods of time, the new skill until it is automatic and can be applied to other situations.
Fife, 2003; Hamody-Douglas, et al., 1998; Hudson, et al., 2010

Technology in Mathematics
As teachers strive to make students technologically literate, students need to use technology to practice, extend, and assess math skills and concepts Technology increases student motivation and creativity and can enhance learning by allowing students to have a hands-on approach Bakia, et al., 2007; Hudson, et al., 2010

Types of Technology
software programs interactive white boards Calculators virtual manipulatives mathematics simulation Webquests Calculators Spreadsheets Internet websites computer games digital media

Software Programs
Most often used Focuses on drill and practice of basic facts and skills Educational software is known to increase learning outcomes by improving the speed of learning and mastery of skills.
Blume, et al., 2001

Technology and Math

Differentiation At home and with parents Data Special Education Students ELL students

Methodology
Qualitative study 25-30 students in a 4th grade inclusion classroom