An Investigation of the Heuristic Strategies Used by Students With and Without Learning Disabilities in Their Acquisition of the Basic Facts of Multiplication

Authors

  • Shana R. Erenberg

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the computational accuracy of the basic facts of multiplication, heuristic strategy use, response latency, and monitoring in fourth grade students with and without learning disabilities. Forty-five students were divided into three test groups: students without learning disabilities; students with learning disabilities achieving at grade level in math; and, students with learning disabilities underachieving in math. Subjects were required to complete two timed computational tasks-flash cards, requiring an oral response; and, a written worksheet;presented through a tachistoscope. Subjects were also asked to explain strategies used to solve each problem and to judge the accuracy of their responses. Strategies were classified as reproductive or reconstructive. Reconstructive strategies were further analyzed with regard to applicability andefficiency. Significant group differences were found.

Issue

Section

Articles