The research design for this project is longitudinal and cross-sectional, and will generate evidence that is causal [experimental, quasi-experimental, and statistical modeling]. Original data is being collected using school records [school records or policy documents], assessments of learning [achievement tests], and survey research [self-completion questionnaires, structured interviewer-administered questionnaires].
The analysis plan includes a longitudinal comparison of experimental and control groups examining training related changes to attention, working memory, in-school math achievement, performance on standardized tests, and fluid intelligence. One half of the children are trained to use the abacus in the intervention group, while children in the comparison group are given additional standard math curriculum.
