Virtual Manipulatives in Elementary Mathematics: A Critical Integrative Review of Research

This paper reviews 10 years of research on virtual manipulatives (VMs) in K-5 mathematics education with a focus on moving beyond generalized conclusions that VMs can support learning to better understanding how and when they support learning. Synthesis of fifteen articles that met the inclusion cri...

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Published inThe journal of computers in mathematics and science teaching Vol. 40; no. 2; pp. 163 - 177
Main Author Rich, Kathryn M
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education 01.04.2021
Subjects
Computer Uses in Education
Context Effect
Educational Research
Elementary School Mathematics
Instructional Effectiveness
Manipulative Materials
Mathematics Instruction
Research Methodology
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Summary:This paper reviews 10 years of research on virtual manipulatives (VMs) in K-5 mathematics education with a focus on moving beyond generalized conclusions that VMs can support learning to better understanding how and when they support learning. Synthesis of fifteen articles that met the inclusion criteria revealed researchers are beginning to unpack how particular features of VMs and context variables interact with student learning outcomes. The influence of context variables, such as whether VMs are used by individual students or used collaboratively, suggests a need for greater attention to the role of the teacher in implementation of VMs. Attention to the teacher's role in defining how VMs are used could inform future directions for teacher education.
ISSN:0731-9258