Engaging Families in Early Mathematics Learning: A Study of a Preschool Family Engagement Model

• In Event: Technology for Improving Robotics and Mathematics Learning in Early Educational Settings

Abstract

This study addresses a program to foster low-income families’ support for their preschool child's mathematical development using transmedia suites. The intervention includes a family engagement model using transmedia suites from PBS. The intervention focused on increasing preschoolers’ mathematics skills and enhancing their parents’ ability to support their children’s mathematics learning in the home environment. The intervention was positively associated with gains in children’s knowledge and skills in mathematics, as measured by the TEMA-3. Adjusted mean differences on the post-test measure of the TEMA-3 show that the intervention group exceeded the comparison group (point estimate of 4.82; effect size = 0.22). Parent survey and focus group data showed significant gains in intervention parents’ awareness and support of their child’s mathematics learning.

Authors

• Elizabeth M. McCarthy, WestEd

• Linlin Li

• Michelle Tiu, WestEd

• Sara Atienza, WestEd

• Ursula M. Sexton, San Ramon USD