Engaging Parents in Early Mathematical Learning Through Transmedia Games

• In Event: Roundtable Session 23
  In Roundtable Session: Early Childhood Classroom Technology Issues

Abstract

This study addresses a program to foster low-income communities’ support for preschool children's mathematical development through PBS KIDS Lab mathematics transmedia game suites. The study used a quasi-experimental, non-equivalent control group design, which assigned 120 parent/child dyads from two Head Start centers to an intervention or comparison group. The results indicate that the intervention was positively associated with gains in children’s knowledge and skills in mathematics, as measured by Child Mathematics Ability, after accounting for differences in baseline assessment and demographic characteristics. The use of these age-appropriate digital media and related home activities also led to increases in parents’ awareness of strategies to support their child’s mathematics learning and their direct support of mathematics learning in the home environment.

Authors

• Elizabeth M. McCarthy, WestEd

• Linlin Li, WestEd

• Ursula M. Sexton, WestEd

• Sara Atienza, WestEd

• Michelle Tiu, WestEd