Date of Award

4-1981

Degree Name

Specialist in Education

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Howard E. Farris

Second Advisor

Dr. Cheryl Poche

Third Advisor

Dr. Galen Alessi

Access Setting

Masters Thesis-Open Access

Abstract

The accuracy and rate of problem solving using Hutchings' low stress addition and subtraction algorithms was investigated using four, fourth-grade low performers. Two multiple baseline designs were used, (one for addition and one for subtraction) where subjects were required to work addition and subtraction problems using the conventional method during Baseline. As Baseline for each subject stabilized, a brief training program was implemented using Hutchings' low stress addition or subtraction algorithm. Following training, subjects were required to work the addition and subtraction problems using the new algorithm. Probes were administered before and after training to measure knowledge of place value and a second probe was given at the end of the study to analyze whether the new algorithm generalized to problems of various sizes and difficulty. Results indicate that accuracy and rate of problem solving improved for all subjects after training with the new addition algorithm, but only for one subject after being trained in subtraction.

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