Perceptual Learning Technology in Sixth-Grade Mathematics Education

• In Event: 46.087 - Poster Session 8
  In Poster Session: 46.087-5 - STEM Matters: Curriculum, Instructional Practices, and Student Gains

Abstract

We present results from a randomized study of two computer-adaptive learning units designed to incorporate principles of perceptual learning: one on 6th-grade fractions and linear measurement (Unit 1), and one on 6th-grade area measurement (Unit 2). The study took place across 60 urban 6th-grade classrooms and utilized within-teacher classroom randomization. We designed assessments aligned to the control-class mathematics curriculum paralleling each unit to estimate treatment effects. Multilevel modeling suggests that students assigned to Unit 1 treatment scored no differently than control students, while students assigned to Unit 2 treatment scored .18 standard deviations (p < .05) higher than control students. We hypothesize that the effectiveness arises from the condensed, targeted nature of the Unit 2 implementation.

Authors

• Janie Scull, University of Pennsylvania

• Xiaoxue Zhang, University of Pennsylvania

• Jill Bowdon, American Institutes for Research