Learning multiplication through computer-assisted activities

Abstract

This study develops and implements a computer-assisted learning (CAL) program with both multiplicative facts practices and the instruction of meaning behind these facts. The effectiveness of CAL on the development of multiplication abilities is also explored. Eight CAL activities are developed to teach multiplication to second grade elementary school students. The CAL program is comprised of three stages of instruction that addressed in succession the basic concept of multiplication, the meaning and properties of multiplication and multiplication-related computation skills. Evaluation of the effects of the learning activities reveals that CAL activities are effective in improving comprehension of the concept of multiplication and the meaning and properties of multiplication for students who have lower prior knowledge of multiplication, but it does not significantly improve the development of multiplication-related computation skills. Nevertheless, CAL activities facilitate overall learning of multiplication.