The Status-quo of Using Electronic Manipulatives to Develop Mathematical Problem-Solving Skills from the Viewpoint of Primary School Mathematics Teachers

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Educational Technology, Department of Educational Technologies, College of Education, King Khalid University, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the status-quo of using electronic manipulatives (EM) to develop the skills of solving a mathematical problem from the point of view of primary school mathematics teachers. To achieve such objective, the researchers used the descriptive survey method. The study population consisted of (1120) teachers of mathematics at the primary stage. A random sample consisting of (297) male and female teachers was selected. Through the statistical analysis extracted from the research instruments, the study results revealed that the least feature of the status-quo of using EM in developing mathematical problem-solving skills is the use of them in helping pupils rearrange the problem data. While the least expressions of how to investigate the teacher's tendency towards using EM to develop the skills of solving a mathematical problem among elementary school pupils is that it helps the student to make sure that the solution meets the conditions set forth in the problem. The lowest requirements for teachers to use EM to develop the skills of solving a mathematical problem among elementary school pupils was to provide computer software and applications for teaching mathematics. Finally, the least obstacle for teachers' use of EM is the development of mathematical problem-solving skills for the elementary level is not dividing class time in a way that ensures optimal employment of EM. Therefore, the study recommended addressing the technical problems in schools; besides, providing computer software related to EM.

Keywords


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