An Overview of Dyscalculia from the Perspective of Mathematics Teachers

Abstract

This study was conducted using the phenomenological research design to examine mathematics teachers’ common experiences who were aware of dyscalculia and who thought they had students with dyscalculia diagnosed with learning disabilities.The study also aimed to reveal the common perception. The participants were seven elementary mathematics teachers from public schools in the provinces Van and Urfa. Ethical permission was obtained from the Scientific Ethical Evaluation Committee of the Dean of the Faculty of Education of Yüzüncü Yıl University on: 24.03.2024 with the number: 21788. Semi-structured interview was used, supported by video and audio recordings. The data were analyzed using descriptive and content analyses. Reflecting on their experiences, the teachers said students with dyscalculia were mostly introverted and asocial and they had problems in many areas of mathematics like performing four operations, rhythmic counting, multiplication tables, reading clock and expressing place and direction. As the most appropriate teaching approach to be applied to students with dyscalculia, the teachers mentioned demonstrating and teaching how to do, teaching mathematics through games, individualized teaching, associating with daily life, applying activity-based and technology-supported teaching approaches. Moreover, the teachers reported they needed family and expert support regarding the interventions for the development of children's mathematical skills.