The Role of Executive Functions at Dyscalculia

Abstract

Calculia is considered to be the ability of performing arithmetic operations. Problems in acquiring arithmetic skills can be described as difficulties in counting as well as developmental dyscalculia. The most comman difficulties in counting are: difficulties in logic, difficulties in planning, perseverance of inappropriate (responses) procedures and poor understanding of arithmetic operations. The aim of the research is to determine the influence of executive functions on the acquisition of mathematical skills and the appearance of dyscalculia at junior schoolchildren. It is operation analized in the following way: - the determination of the relationship between the ability levels of planning and forming of concepts (as elements of executive functioning) and mastering of mathematical skills of junior schoolchildren - the determination of the relationship between the elements of executive systems (abilities of planning, flexibility of attention and mental rigidity) at children with difficulties in mastering mathematical skills. Following tests of neuropsychological test battery were used. The examined variables: planning; perseverance; mental rigidity. WCST- WISCONSIN CARD SORTING TEST - used for evaluation, is the best-known test for the discovery of perseverance and mental rigidity. Control variables are: sex, age and deviant intellect quotient. In accordance with the set goal of the research to determine the influence of the examined characteristic of EF and their influence on the acquisition of mathematical skills and the appearance of difficulties in it, we concluded that the influence existed and that the role of EF in the acquisition of mathematical skills at junior primary schoolchildren was considerable. The assertion was based on the results which, at children with calculation difficulties, show low efficiency and high connection of the examined cognitive characteristics of EF (p lt 0,01). At children who do not show calculation difficulties, the examined characteristics of EF show high efficiency without any statistically important connection (p>0,01).