ERIC Number: ED604961
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2020
Pages: 37
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Does "Measure Up!" Measure Up? Evaluation of an iPad App to Teach Preschoolers Measurement Concepts
Schenke, Katerina; Redman, Elizabeth J. K. H.; Chung, Gregory K. W. K.; Chang, Sandy M.; Feng, Tianying; Parks, Charles B.; Roberts, Jeremy
Grantee Submission
Understanding digital supports for early learning is paramount for school readiness and later mathematics learning. We present results from a randomized control trial evaluating a digital app (Measure Up!) and a parent companion app (Super Vision) designed to teach children measurement concepts, a skill that many teachers do not feel comfortable teaching. Ninety-nine 4- and 5-year-old children were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: Measure Up!, Super Vision + Measure Up!, or a control game. Analyses revealed a statistically significant effect of being in the treatment group (Measure Up! or Measure Up! + Super Vision) on children's posttest scores (about two additional questions correct), controlling for the pretest and demographic characteristics (gender, SES). In particular, gains were made for children's understanding of pan balances. There was no significant difference between the two treatment groups. Results suggest that apps can be designed to help children learn important mathematics skills; however, more research needs to be done to understand how parent supports can be better designed. Implications for evaluation and design of game-based learning tools are discussed. [This paper was published in "Computers and Education" v146 2020.]
Descriptors: Program Evaluation, Instructional Effectiveness, Teaching Methods, Handheld Devices, Computer Oriented Programs, Preschool Education, Preschool Children, Mathematics Instruction, Measurement, Mathematics Skills, Parent Participation, Game Based Learning, Educational Games, Mathematical Concepts
Publication Type: Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education; Preschool Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: Department of Education (ED)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: PRU295A150003
Author Affiliations: N/A