Dyscalculia in Learning Mathematics: Underpinning Concerns for Delivering Contents

Abstract

Dyscalculia is a term that affects the ability to acquire arithmetical skills. It is one of the important areas of a specific learning disorder in mathematics covering the areas particularly, number sense, memorization of arithmetic facts, accurate and fluent calculation, and accurate math reasoning. It is estimated that about 3-6 percent of the population is facing problems associated with dyscalculia. This paper explores the theoretical consideration of dyscalculia in learning mathematics and outlines the ways of employing effective pedagogy to address dyscalculic students. The study is based on theoretical and descriptive methods. It focuses on the theoretical concern about learning mathematics, dyscalculia, its meaning and concept, types, causes, common difficult areas and impacts on mathematics learning. It also draws out the way of effectively delivering content and provides support for the dyscalculic learner. This article concludes that dyscalculic learners are facing various difficulties due to their weak number sense, low basic mathematics fluency, reasoning and accurate arithmetic calculation. Thus it is essential to provide specialized instruction as well as extra support to uplifts and retain the skills and performance of the dyscalculic learner in mathematics. Otherwise, the arithmetic inability can lead the learner to more difficult circumstances that may be beyond the classroom learning context.

Low mathematics performance and the role of digital technologies

“…Thus, Dyscalculia is a developmental disorder which is detected at a specific part of the brain. It is also found that, although children diagnosed with Dyscalculia have severe educational difficulties, they can solve complicated Math problems, provided more time (Kunwar, 2020).…”

“…It is also important to mention that even Math-related words cause Anxiety to children with Dyscalculia -who do not experience Anxiety in general. Another negative impact of Dyscalculia is that it can cause dysfunction of the working memory (Kunwar, 2020;Landerl et al, 2003;Rubinstein & Tannock, 2010;Shalev, 2004;Shalev & Gross-Tsur, 2000).…”

The neuroscience basis and educational interventions of mathematical cognitive impairment and anxiety: a systematic literature review

“…Calculation Difficulties:Due to brain injuries, individuals with ACD may face significant challenges in mathematical calculations ( Cohen et al, 2018 ). This includes not only complex mathematical calculations, such as solving algebraic and geometric problems, but also simpler tasks like basic arithmetic operations ( Kaufmann, 2008 ; Kunwar, 2021 ). They might make mistakes easily during calculations or take longer to complete tasks that should be simple and quick.…”

Advances in the Contributions of Mathematics in the Field of Education and Psychology

“…Calculation Difficulties:Due to brain injuries, individuals with ACD may face significant challenges in mathematical calculations (Cohen et al, 2018). This includes not only complex mathematical calculations, such as solving algebraic and geometric problems, but also simpler tasks like basic arithmetic operations (Kaufmann, 2008;Kunwar, 2021). They might make mistakes easily during calculations or take longer to complete tasks that should be simple and quick.…”