Learning the single-digit multiplication facts: The role of the commutative principle

The role of the commutative principle of multiplication in learning the single-digit multiplication facts was explored in this study. Two theoretical positions are described that depict the manner in which these arithmetic facts are taught and learned. The associationist position states that the single-digit multiplication facts are learned through memorization and should be taught using drill and practice. The meaningful learning conception views learning this set of facts as developing the mathematical concepts underlying multiplication. Proponents of this approach advocate using a variety of experiences directly related to multiplication to establish a conceptual framework for multiplication. The influence of the commutative principle is absent from the associationist formulation, but is quite prominent in the meaningful learning notion of single-digit multiplication fact learning. The purpose of this investigation was to ascertain whether instruction on the commutative principle promotes the transfer of learning from practiced to unpracticed single-digit multiplication facts.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Education

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2011

Author dc:creator

• Dawson, Frederick E., III

• Education, Mathematics
• Education, Elementary

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 1989 Dawson, Frederick E., III

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

AAI9010842
(UMI)AAI9010842

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/22202