Amount of Time Spent on Cloud-Based App-Aided Practice Has a Positive Effect on Mathematical Performance

• In Event: Topics in Mathematics Education

Abstract

There is minimal research on the extent that informal math practice has on math ability. This study examined the use of a cloud-based app—IXL Math—to supplement math instruction in three schools in a midwestern school district. The analyses used propensity score matching to assess the impact of the amount of time spent using the app on standardized assessment scores, controlling for demographic variables and prior math achievement. Logistic regression results from a sample of students in grades 1 through 5 (N = 3,214) show that different amounts of time spent on IXL Math practice are positively associated with achieving math target growth, peaking at 270 minutes of practice or more (OR = 1.67, 95% CI [1.28, 2.18]).

Authors

• Julio Caesar, Bloomington Public Schools

• David J. Heistad, Bloomington Public Schools

• Tim Kaari, Bloomington Public Schools