Spacing Out! Manipulating Spatial Features in Math Expressions Affects Performance

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 20
  In Roundtable Session: Design Considerations in Mathematics Learning

Abstract

This study explores the effect of physical spacing within mathematical expressions on student performance. A sample of 2,425 students were randomly assigned to a condition within an online problem set, with terms in expressions spaced 1) neutrally, 2) consistently, with spacing which follows the order of precedence, 3) inconsistently, with spacing which does not follow the order of precedence, or 4) a mixed combination of conditions. Students in the inconsistent condition were less likely to complete the assignment than students in the consistent condition and made more errors than students in the consistent and neutral conditions, suggesting that inconsistent spacing presents challenges. These findings replicate and extend research in perception showing that physical spacing influences performance on math problems.

Authors

• Avery Harrison Closser, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Hannah Smith, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Taylyn Hulse, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Erin R Ottmar, Worcester Polytechnic Institute