Flexibility and adaptivity in arithmetic strategy use: What children know and what they show

Central elements of adaptive expertise in arithmetic problem solving are flexibility, using multiple strategies, and adaptivity, selecting the optimal strategy. Research shows that strategies children actually use do not fully reflect they know: there is hidden potential. In current study a sample 147 third graders from Netherlands completed comprehensive assessment domain multidigit subtraction, designed to measure, first, students know solve subtraction problems (potential practical flexibility). Second, it measured what extent which strategy adaptivity). Findings for flexibility showed most consistently used same across all problems: was low. When prompted, knew more than spontaneously, suggesting potential flexibility. adaptivity hardly ever spontaneously task-specific efficient specific since has fewest easiest steps. However, almost half could select this set given at least once. Furthermore, an innovative, personalized version choice/no-choice method usually (fastest leading correct answer) individual students. Finally, with performed best often other but strategies.