Over the past 20 years, a great deal of cognitive
science research has focused on mathematics
learning. The majority of this research has
examined basic capabilities such as counting,
understanding of numerical magnitudes, arithmetic
(both word problems and purely numerical
problems), and pre-algebra. Another, somewhat
smaller, body of research has been devoted to
students' understanding of, and learning about,
algebra, geometry, and computer programming. This
research now allows relatively firm conclusions to be
drawn about a number of aspects of mathematics
learning relevant to the NCTM standards. This
paper focuses on 8 areas in which such conclusions
can be drawn:
1. Mathematical understanding before
children enter school
2. Pitfalls in mathematics learning
3. Cognitive variability and strategy choice
4. Individual differences
5. Discovery and insight
6, Relations between conceptual and
procedural knowledge
7. Cooperative learning
8. Promoting analytic thinking and transfer
The remainder of this paper examines
conclusions based on cognitive science research on
each of these topics. This work informs us regarding
how children typically learn particular skills and
concepts, the stumbling blocks that many of them
encounter, and instructional practices that can