Investigating Game Format Effect on Parental Scaffolding Behaviors in Early Numeracy Activities

• In Event: 63.060 - Impact of Digital Technology on Young Children's Learning

Abstract

The purpose of this mixed-method study was to explore the differences in parental scaffolding behaviors when using two different formats of a numeracy-related game, a technology-based electronic format and a traditional board format. Thirty-nine preschooler-parent dyads participated in the study in which they played both formats of the game. Videos of the parent-child play were coded quantitatively and qualitatively. The preliminary analysis was quantitative, followed up by qualitative analysis to further understand the differences between the two formats. The results revealed that parents provided more of the coded scaffolding behaviors when using the board game format, but scaffolding in the electronic game was often more numeracy-focused.

Authors

• Joyce Zhou-Yile Schnieders, ACT, Inc.

• Jeremy A Dietmeier, The University of Iowa

• Joyce L. Moore, University of Iowa