Can Maths Apps Add Value to Young Children’s Learning? A Systematic Review and Content Analysis

Presenter: Professor Christothea Herodotou

Abstract: Educational maths applications (apps) are an emerging trend in children’s learning environments aiming to raise their mathematical attainment. With over 200,000 educational apps available within the App Store deciding which apps to use poses a significant challenge to teachers, parents, and policy makers. In this presentation, findings from the Nuffield-funded project MAPPS will be presented and discussed. The aim is to advance our understandings of whether and how educational maths apps can support children’s learning. In particular, a systematic review synthesised the current evidence on educational maths apps for young children in the first three years of compulsory school. A  follow-up content analysis examined the content and design features of different educational maths apps and how they may support children’s learning. The project was in collaboration with UCL.

Bio: Christothea Herodotou is a Professor of Learning Technologies and Social Justice at the Open University UK. She has expertise in the design and evaluation of learning technologies that promote education opportunity and social justice, including learning analytics dashboards, online citizen science websites, and mobile game applications.