Many of you might be wondering: could learning mental arithmetic (calculations with the abacus) confuse children in their regular math classes?
In fact, research shows quite the opposite! Calculating with the modern version of the ancient Japanese abacus, Soroban, actually enhances children’s mathematical abilities, helping them excel both in mental arithmetic and traditional school mathematics.
Let’s explore how this ancient tool develops children’s skills.
What is the Abacus?
It is a traditional Japanese tool used for performing arithmetic operations. Unlike modern calculators or paper-and-pencil methods, the abacus requires students to physically move beads, which helps them visualize numbers and perform arithmetic operations.
But does learning mental arithmetic confuse children when they start studying traditional school math?
Science says “no”! In fact, numerous studies have proven that the abacus offers many cognitive benefits that improve children’s intellect and mathematical skills.
Here are the scientific proofs of the benefits of calculating with the abacus:
Improving Math Skills
Studies from institutions like Kyoto University show that children who practice mental arithmetic with the abacus develop faster and more accurate mental calculation skills. Over time, these students can solve complex math problems in their minds by visualizing the abacus, without needing the physical tool. How does this help in school? These skills make them significantly quicker at calculations, which in turn improves their overall performance in math classes.
Better Understanding of Numbers
By moving the beads on the abacus rods, children visualize the numbers and thus gain a better understanding of how numbers function. This hands-on experience complements traditional math learning and helps children see how numbers fit together in a concrete way.
Increased Brain Activity
Studies using neuroimaging technologies (such as MRI scans) show that students who practice mental arithmetic activate parts of the brain associated with visual-spatial processing and working memory. These skills help children process information more efficiently. Simply put, mental arithmetic strengthens the brain’s ability to work with numbers.
Improved Cognitive Abilities
Research published in the Journal of Educational Psychology shows that children trained with the abacus demonstrate improvements in concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills. These benefits help them perform better not just in math, but across all school subjects.
Why Doesn’t Mental Arithmetic Interfere with School Math?
A common concern among parents is that learning mental arithmetic may confuse children when they start studying traditional mathematics. However, studies published in the International Journal of Science and Mathematics Education confirm that students easily adapt between abacus training and school math. In fact, learning with the abacus helps students build a solid foundation, making them more confident in their math classes.
How Does Mental Arithmetic Fit into Modern Education?
In Asia, the abacus has long been used as a powerful tool for teaching children arithmetic. Not only there, but many schools and educational programs around the world are beginning to see the benefits of incorporating abacus training. Why? It makes math more engaging and interactive, giving children the confidence to tackle difficult tasks.
At SmartyKids, we believe that mental arithmetic is an effective way to help children develop the core skills needed for success in math and beyond. Our program uses this ancient tool to make learning fun, engaging, and most importantly, to give children a real advantage in their academic journey.
Conclusion
Scientific studies are clear: learning with the abacus helps children excel in math without confusing them. It strengthens mental calculation skills, enhances understanding of mathematical concepts, and even stimulates cognitive abilities such as memory, concentration, and logical thinking. So, if you’re wondering whether to enroll your child in a mental arithmetic course, rest assured that this is a tool that can complement—and improve—their success in school.
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Research Conducted on the Topic:
- Mental Abacus: The Effect of Abacus Training on the Brain’s Numerical Processing Networks – Kyoto University: This study uses fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) to show how training with Soroban activates brain areas related to numerical processing and working memory.
- The Cognitive Benefits of Abacus Training in School-Aged Children – Journal of Educational Psychology: This research demonstrates that children trained with the abacus show improved arithmetic, concentration, and cognitive skills.
- Effectiveness of Abacus Training in Enhancing Children’s Arithmetic Skills – Educational Studies in Mathematics (Springer): A study comparing the results of children trained with Soroban to those who are not, showing significant improvements in calculation skills and speed.
- Mathematics Learning and Abacus: Comparative Analysis Between Japan and Western Countries – International Journal of Science and Mathematics Education: A cross-cultural study showing how Soroban training improves conceptual understanding of numbers.
- The Role of Abacus Training in Enhancing Numerical Fluency in Primary Education – Learning and Instruction (Elsevier): This study shows that Soroban training leads to faster and more accurate calculations, improving children’s overall numerical fluency.
About SmartyKids:
SmartyKids is a leading educational franchise company with over 350 centres worldwide.
Committed to nurturing children’s holistic development, SmartyKids offers cutting-edge programs. Furthermore, they are designed to prepare young students for success in today’s challenging world. With a focus on innovation, technology, and expert guidance, SmartyKids creates a conducive environment for children. Here, they can thrive and achieve their goals effectively.
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