An Introduction to Mathematical Cognition

The last decade has seen a rapid growth in our understanding of the cognitive systems that underlie mathematical learning and performance, and an increased recognition of the importance of this topic. This book showcases international research on the most important cognitive issues that affect mathematical performance across a wide age range, from early childhood to adulthood. The book considers the foundational competencies of nonsymbolic and symbolic number processing before discussing arithmetic, conceptual understanding, individual differences and dyscalculia, algebra, number systems, reasoning and higher-level mathematics such as formal proof. Drawing on diverse methodology from behavioural experiments to brain imaging, each chapter discusses key theories and empirical findings and introduces key tasks used by researchers. The final chapter discusses challenges facing the future development of the field of mathematical cognition and reviews a set of open questions that mathematical cognition researchers should address to move the field forward. This book is ideal for undergraduate or graduate students of psychology, education, cognitive sciences, cognitive neuroscience and other academic and clinical audiences including mathematics educators and educational psychologists.

About the Authors

Camilla Gilmore is a Reader in Mathematical Cognition in the Mathematics Education Centre at Loughborough University. Her research explores the development of numerical skills in children and adults.

Silke Göbel is a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of York. She teaches courses on Numerical Cognition, Dyscalculia, Mathematics Anxiety and Neuroscience of Numbers and Arithmetic. Her current research focuses on predictors of mathematical development.

Matthew Inglis is a Reader in Mathematical Cognition in the Mathematics Education Centre at Loughborough University. He is interested in understanding the processes involved in numerical and mathematical reasoning, and how these can be promoted through education.