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Article published In: Gesture
Vol. 17:3 (2018) ► pp.375–416

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What the hands tell us about mathematical learning

A synthesis of gesture use in mathematics instruction

 | Vanderbilt University
 | The University of Texas at Austin
 | The University of Texas at Austin
Published online: 18 February 2020
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https://doi.org/10.1075/gest.17014.mar
Abstract
Mathematical achievement is an early predictor of students’ academic outcomes, and mathematics achievement continues to be important throughout life. Thus, it is essential to examine instructional methods that enhance mathematical learning. One method that may impact mathematical learning is the use of gestures, yet a comprehensive methodical review of the data has not been conducted. The current study examined the impact that gestures have on student learning when educators use gestures during mathematical instruction and educators’ perception of student mathematical knowledge when students use gestures. A systematic search was conducted to assemble research studies that evaluated the use of gestures in mathematical instruction with students in preschool to 12th grade. Empirical data from 35 research articles indicate that gestures used by students or educators that enhance verbal instruction can increase student mathematical performance and memory. Furthermore, it is practical to teach students and educators to use gestures effectively during mathematical learning.
Article outline
  • Introduction
    • Mathematics
    • Gestures
    • Purpose and research questions
  • Method
    • Systematic search procedures
    • Inclusion and exclusion criteria
    • Coding procedures
  • Results
    • Study types
      • Narratives
      • Frequency and correlational studies
      • Experimental studies
    • Educators’ use of gestures to teach mathematics
    • Impact of the use of gestures by educators
    • Student use of gestures during mathematics instruction
      • Learning gestures
      • Communicative gestures
      • Why students gesture
      • Variation in students’ use of gestures
    • Impact of the use of gestures by students
  • Discussion
    • Educator gestures
    • Student gestures
    • Student performance
    • Limitations
    • Implications of findings and future directions
  • Conclusion
  • Acknowledgements
  • References
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