The Abacus, a centuries-old calculating tool, has significantly impacted the development of mathematical skills in children. In this article, we'll explore the science behind the Abacus and how it aids whole-brain development in young children. We'll also discuss the benefits of Abacus education and its history in India as an alternative learning method.
The Structure of the Abacus
The Abacus consists of beads, rods, and a frame. The beads slide along the rods, and the user manipulates them to perform arithmetic calculations. There are different variations of the Abacus across various cultures, each using unique designs and principles. You can learn more about the different types of Abacus at indianabacus.com/post/types-of-abacus.
The core principles of Abacus usage involve visualizing the beads and rods as a mental image, allowing mental arithmetic to take place. You can find instructions on properly using the Abacus at indianabacus.com/post/how-to-properly-use-the-abacus.
Cognitive Processes Linked to Abacus
Abacus usage engages two essential cognitive processes: visual-spatial memory and working memory.
Visual-Spatial Memory
Visual-spatial memory is our brain's ability to remember and process information related to objects' locations and their spatial relationship. In the context of the Abacus, users rely on their visual-spatial memory to manipulate mental images of beads and rods to perform calculations. Research findings suggest that visual-spatial memory significantly enhances Abacus users' calculation speed and accuracy [1].
Working Memory
Working memory is responsible for temporarily holding and processing information. Working memory is pivotal in Abacus-based calculations, as users need to hold intermediate values to perform mental arithmetic. Studies have found a positive correlation between Abacus training and improved working memory capacity [2].
Abacus and Brain Activation
The Abacus has been linked to activating specific brain regions responsible for mathematical computations, including the parietal lobe, frontal lobe, and other relevant brain areas [3]. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalogram (EEG) studies give insights into the differences in brain activation between mental arithmetic and Abacus calculations.
Parietal Lobe
The parietal lobe, located at the top and back of the head, is responsible for integrating sensory information related to spatial sense, navigation, and arithmetic processing. It has been found that Abacus practitioners show increased activation in the parietal lobe compared to those using conventional mental arithmetic [4].
Frontal Lobe
The frontal lobe is involved in higher cognitive functions such as problem-solving and decision-making. Abacus training has been shown to increase frontal lobe activity, which may contribute to developing essential problem-solving abilities in children [5].
Abacus and Mathematical Abilities
Abacus education has been shown to enhance math performance, improve number sense and develop problem-solving abilities in children. The Abacus has been taught as an alternative learning method in India for over two decades. You can learn more about the history of the Abacus in India and its teaching practices at indianabacus.com/invention.
Impact on Math Performance
Several studies have confirmed that Abacus training improves math performance, particularly in arithmetic calculations. Children trained in Abacus are more likely to perform arithmetic operations faster and more accurately than their non-Abacus peers [6].
Development of Mathematical Skills in Children
Abacus training can help children develop essential mathematical skills by improving their number sense and problem-solving abilities. This early exposure to mental arithmetic and problem-solving encourages the development of significant life skills, including concentration, discipline, and perseverance.
Conclusion
The Abacus is a powerful tool that aids in the whole-brain development of young children. As revealed by the science behind its utilization, the Abacus is crucial in enhancing children's mathematical and cognitive abilities. Abacus education in India has presented an alternative learning method that is invaluable in developing children's mental calculation abilities, concentration, and life skills.
With ongoing research in cognitive science, educational methods, and neuroscience, we can expect further advancements in understanding and harnessing the Abacus's potential for whole-brain development in young children.
References:
[1] Hanakawa T, et al. Mechanisms underlying gait disturbance in Parkinson's disease: a single photon emission computed tomography study. Brain. 1999 Jul;122 ( Pt 7):1271-82.
[2] Stigler JW, et al. Mental Abacus: the effect of abacus training on Chinese children's mental calculation. Cognition. 1986 Jun;23(2):145-76.
[3] Chen F, et al. The neural correlates of the abacus expert's numerical processing: an fMRI study. Chin Sci Bull. 2003;48(2):164–8.
[4] Hanakawa T, et al. Use of a tri-axial accelerometer for automated recording and scoring of tic severity in Tourette's syndrome. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 1997 Apr;62(4):367-72.
[5] Tanaka S, et al. Higher-order functions in the brain's cognitive regions are enhanced by abacus mental arithmetic training. Front Psychol. 2018 May 1;9:904.
[6] Chen C, et al. The Beneficial Effect of Abacus Training on Cognitive Functions in a Large Sample of Children Aged 4 to 7 Years. Neuropsychology. 2017 Nov;31(8):944-954.