Individual Differences in Arithmetic ─ Implications for Psychology, Neuroscience and Education

Standards in numeracy are a constant concern to educational policy-makers. However, why are differences in arithmetical performance so marked? InIndividual Differences in Arithmetic, Ann Dowker seeks to provide a better understanding of why these differences in ability exist, encouraging a more informed approach to tackling numeracy difficulties.

This book will synthesise research conducted by the author and others on the subject of arithmetical ability and present strong evidence to support a componential view of arithmetic. The book examines arithmetical cognition in children, healthy adults and neuropsychological patients, ensuring that each of the central components of arithmetic is covered. Within this volume, findings from developmental, educational, cognitive and neuropsychological studies are integrated in a unique approach.

Ann Dowker is a University Research Lecturer at the Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, UK. Her interests include many aspects of developmental psychology and the psychology of individual differences. She has carried out extensive research on individual differences in arithmetic in both children and adults, and on the phenomenon of ‘mathematics anxiety’.