Positive results for early years math apps
The results of
a randomized controlled trial of two new math apps to support young children's early math development has shown positive results. The apps, "Maths 3-5" and "Maths 4-6", are based on core mathematical concepts in number and shape, and space and measure, which are covered in the Early Years Foundation Stage, and also start to introduce children to topics covered in Key Stage 1 (Kindergarten/1st Grade).
Laura Outhwaite and colleagues conducted the randomized controlled trial of the apps with 389 children aged 4-5 years from 12 schools in the UK. The trial took place over 12 weeks in the last weeks of their Reception (pre-K) school year before students moved to Key Stage 1 (Kindergarten/1st Grade). Students were randomized to either use the apps in addition to standard math teaching activities (treatment); use the apps instead of a regular small group-based math activity (time-equivalent treatment), or continue with usual math teaching activities (control).
The results showed that students in the treatment group made more progress on standardized assessments of math performance over 12 weeks than students in the control group (effect size = +0.31). Similarly, students in the time-equivalent treatment made more progress in math performance than students in the control group (effect size = +0.21). There was no significant difference in math performance between students in the two treatment groups (effect size = +0.08).
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