Developing a mathematics curriculum to improve learning behaviors and mathematics competency of children. Issue 3 (4th May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shirani Bidabadi, Nahid; Nasr Esfahani, Ahmad Reza; Mirshah Jafari, Ebrahim; Abedi, Ahmad
• Is Part Of: Journal of educational research. Volume 112:Issue 3(2019)
• Page Start: 421
• Page End: 428
• Publication Date: 2019-05-04
• Subjects: Mathematics curriculum -- mathematical competencies -- learning behaviors; Education -- Periodicals; 370.705
• DOI: 10.1080/00220671.2018.1547960
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-0671

Abstract

Abstract: The authors investigated the effect of a mathematical curriculum (CU) developed based on verbal and practical activities on the mathematical competency (MC) and learning behaviors (LB) of preschool children. In a quasi-experimental design, 60 children (5- to 6-year-old girls) were selected using the accessible sampling method. The children were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group, and the relevant concepts were taught to the children in both groups. While the control group received the typical kindergarten education based on the usual textbooks and worksheets, the CU was taught to the experimental group. Structural equation modeling was used to model the data and statistical evaluation. The results demonstrated a significant difference between the two groups in MC and LB. The CU significantly improved MC directly, and indirectly through the improvement of LB (i.e., engagement and learning focus, verbal behaviors, and type of activity).