Cognitive Subtypes of Arithmetic Learning Difficulties in Primary Education

• In Event: Roundtable Session 2
  In Roundtable Session: Roundtable: Mathematics Learning of Struggling Learners

Abstract

It has been asserted that children with arithmetic learning difficulties (ALD) constitute a heterogeneous group. Most researchers up till now have investigated differences between ALD children by predefining groups. In this study a data-driven approach was used to define cognitive ALD subgroups. 226 third to six graders with ALD completed number specific and general cognitive measures. After conducting a factor analysis, a 200 times repeated K-means clustering approach was used to define subtypes based on children’s strengths and weaknesses on the tasks. Results revealed six distinguishable cognitive clusters of ALD children, implying that different cognitive subtypes of MLD exist. Therefore, educational practitioners confronted with ALD assessment, teaching and remediation should also focus on differences between cognitive subtypes.

Authors

• Dimona Bartelet, Maastricht University

• Daniel Ansari

• Anniek Vaessen

• Carla Haelermans, Maastricht University