Factors Affecting the Learning Difficulties in the Subject of Mathematics at Elementary Level

Abstract

This study investigated the causes of learning difficulties in mathematics at the elementary level. The quantitative survey of 350 teachers, parents, and admins was conducted in which the researchers analysed the cognitive, affective, instructional, and social environmental dimensions. The researchers found that number sense, working memory, and math anxiety are major issues. Also we saw that instructional practices which focus on rote learning instead of conceptual understanding, along with limited resources and parent support, do in fact make these issues worse. Although we did not see which gender or which role had different issues, what did vary greatly was professional experience. The study reports out that for effective interventions to be put in place they have to be holistic which includes early screening, teacher training, supportive environment, and also which put forth strategies to foster conceptual understanding and positive mindsets towards math.