Exploring the spatial-math link: The impact of tailored visual memory interventions for children with MLD
Date
2021-01-08
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Abstract
Research has demonstrated that a link exists between spatial abilities and mathematics, with both receiving recognition for their influence on academic and professional achievements. Gaps in the research exist however surrounding narrow spatial abilities and their influence on math difficulties, specifically in children with Math Learning Disorder (MLD), and if spatial deficit remediation is possible. A number of spatial interventions have been shown to improve spatial and mathematics achievement; while promising, the scope of such studies has been largely limited to typically developing populations of children and a narrow range of spatial skills, most notably visualization and mental rotation. The current study implemented a spatial intervention focused on remediating visual memory deficits in three children aged 8-11 with MLD. A novel visual memory intervention was developed with reference to validated visual memory assessment tasks in an attempt to increase participants’ visual memory ability, and in-turn, their math ability. A multiple-baseline single case design technique was used to assess participants’ baseline and intervention performance on visual memory, visualization, and math ability. Follow-up testing also took place to examine any maintenance or generalizability of intervention effects to other spatial or math skills. No significant intervention effects were found on any of the spatial or math abilities. Further examination of the relation between visual memory and mathematics is warranted; a comprehensive understanding of the influence of visual memory on math difficulties may improve education and interventions for children with MLD.
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math learning disorder, spatial abilities, visual memory, mathematics, spatial intervention, visualization, narrow spatial abilities
Citation
Donnelly, E. L. H. (2021). Exploring the spatial-math link: The impact of tailored visual memory interventions for children with MLD (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.