Improving Math Fact Fluency using Online Resources in a Virtual Upper Elementary Montessori Classroom

Abstract

Math fact fluency is a problem across the United States and it affects the success of many students. Math anxiety is a very real experience and considerations are to be made for this while also seeking to help students improve their math fact fluency. The research questions looked into math fact fluency after daily online practice in a upper elementary Montessori classroom, and tried to find out which online resources were the most preferred by participants. The population was 15 Montessori students in a 4-6th grade classroom that participated in daily 10-minute practice sessions using three different fact websites for six weeks. Surveys and timed assessments were administered weekly to determine student confidence growth, math fact fluency growth, and most-preferred website. Most students demonstrated an increase in math fact fluency and confidence by the end of the study. Multiplication.com was the favorite resource out of the three websites. This study shows that online resources can be effective for practicing math facts. Yet, the researcher also discusses the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic and how these affect the implementation of the Montessori educational experience. Many follow up questions and considerations are listed.