= Mathematics achievement
<Mathematics achievement> is attained performance on specified mathematical <learning> objectives. Its meaning depends on the content and scoring of the assessment: proficiency in <counting>, <arithmetic> and <geometry> need not form an identical profile. A total score can summarize performance while concealing which skills changed.
An informative intervention therefore measures more than success on its practiced activity. In <Geetha B. Ramani>'s study with <Robert S. Siegler>, children played either a linear numbered board game or a corresponding color board game. Assessment included <counting>, <numeral identification>, <numerical magnitude comparison> and <number-line estimation>, rather than only skill at winning the game.<Promoting broad and stable improvements in low-income children's numerical knowledge through playing number board games by Geetha B. Ramani and others>[2008, abstract; Materials and Procedure; numerical knowledge measures]{ref}
Improvement on an assessment is evidence about that outcome in the studied population. Claims about broader mathematical understanding require appropriate <generalization> tests and a comparison design that separates the intervention from maturation, repeated testing and other experiences.
Back to article page