Learning Basic Mathematic Concepts with Computer Games

Abstract

Mathematics lays the foundation for abstract, logical and analytical thinking abilities. Therefore teaching basic mathematic concepts such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division are started in schools from primary grades. It was revealed that teaching mathematics only in the traditional classroom environment with teacher centred learning has yielded poor performance so far among learners. Therefore in this project a computer game was developed to teach the basic mathematics concepts in a gaming environment considering the interest of small children in playing computer games. Levels of the games are developed based on Bloom’s taxonomy to ensure that the pedagogical objectives are met. According to evaluation results student acceptance of the system was very high because they have been able to grasp the concepts in a very friendly and an effective manner. The teachers also had a very positive acceptance indicating the high level of effectiveness mainly due to aligning the games with levels of Blooms taxonomy because it aids achieving educational objectives. Thus the system was recommended as an additional support tool for learning mathematics, for primary students.