Mathematical Building Blocks: Investigating the On-line Cognitive Processes Underlying Addition

As one of the most important subjects of modern education, mathematics is a central pillar for the economy and the development of critical societal areas. Without the basic ability to perform arithmetical computations, a person is unable to fulfil their potential, to engage significantly in society, and to live a satisfying life. However, the cognitive processes involved in mathematical computations have received relatively little research. Addition is a basic building block of more complex arithmetic. The research proposed in my thesis will use eye-tracking to examine the operands order and carry effects in multidigit addition problems. The objective of this research is to identify the cognitive processes and time course involved in solving addition problems. This project will allow me to develop theoretical accounts of the visual, attentional, and cognitive processes underlying mathematical computation and provide insights that can benefit mathematics education.