Exact Arithmetic, Computational Estimation And Approximate Arithmetic Are Different Skills: Evidence From A Study With 5-Year-Olds

Research distinguishes three types of arithmetic: exact arithmetic, computational estimation and approximate arithmetic. Little is, however, known about the interrelationship among these three arithmetic skills and the general cognitive and early numeracy skills that underlie these arithmetic skills. The current study investigates this interrelationship and underlying processes in 389 kindergartners. Exact arithmetic and computational estimation skills were assessed using a manipulative task, while approximate arithmetic was measured using a computerized task. Correlational analysis showed significant relations among the three arithmetic skills. At the same time, confirmatory factor analyses showed that they are different constructs. In addition, regression analysis showed that different general cognitive and early numeracy skills are predictive of the three arithmetic skills. Since the different arithmetic skills are related but distinct constructs and because they are driven by different processes, teaching and learning each of these skills ask for a different approach.HighlightsExact arithmetic, computational estimation and approximate arithmetic are related but distinct arithmetic skills.Intelligence is predictive of all three arithmetic skills, while working memory only predicts computational estimation performance.Early numeracy skills are predictive of exact arithmetic and computational estimation performance but not of approximate arithmetic performance.