engleski

Testing pre-mathematical skills - a pilot study

Objectives: One of the key factors for successful mathematical learning is pre- mathematical skills. Counting, classification, comparing and equalization, instruction following, orientation, visualization, visual grouping and assessing are necessary for the appropriate adoption of mathematical concepts. In Croatia there are no standardized measuring instruments for the assessment of early (pre)mathematical skills in children. The goal of this pilot research was to examine the metric characteristics of our Pre-mathematical Test designed according to Alison Breners’ model published in a book “Mathematics without tears” by M.Sharma. Methods: The sample consisted of 90 children aged from 4 ; 00 to 7 ; 00, divided into 3 age groups (4 ; 00-4 ; 11, 5 ; 00-5 ; 11, 6 ; 00-7 ; 00 years of age) of 30 children each. Testing was conducted individually. The child had to sort, compare, equalize, visually group, estimate quantity and add up given objects. Basic statistical parameters are given for each of the summatic variables with asymmetry and flattening coefficients. Normality in their frequency distribution was tested with the Kolmogorov Smirnov and Shapiro- Wilk tests. To determine diagnostic validity, data was processed in a program for factor analysis under a component model. The metric properties of the whole Test and every single particle were calculated. Results: The frequency distribution of the summatic variables in the Pre-mathematical Test deviate from the Gauss curvature, while the metric characteristics of the whole Test and single particles (with the exception of the particle Mass conservation) are within the range of satisfying values. It is possible that inclusion of a greater number of examinees would contribute to slight differences in the results considering the stated particle, which would then require seclusion or further analysis. Conclusions: However, the given results permit us to use this Test in clinical practice with the purpose of evaluating the developmental stages of pre-mathematical skills in the preschool age.

Assessment ; pre-mathematical skills ; preschool age ; mathematical concepts

nije evidentirano